posted
Man, am I glad I found you guys. FINALLY, someone to appreciate what I am going through. Anyway, are social withdrawal and self esteem issues symptoms of Lyme? In my "pre-Lyme" days, I was very energetic, athletic and self confident. I was a member of the military, in great physical and mental shape and felt confident I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. I was friendly, out going and "never met a stranger". These days, not so much. I no longer feel comfortable around anyone, except a couple of my family members. I used to think I was very approachable and easy to talk to. Now, I have the drooping eyelids, I have been told it makes me look "mean". I also have been diagnosed with cognitive impairment. I no longer have the confidence to tackle anything. Are these "normal"(for a lack of a better term) conditions of chronic Lyme, or is it self-pity or depression? I feel a lot of frustration and anger and hopelessness. I look forward to your responses. Thank you all, again.
Posts: 31 | From Concord, North Carolina | Registered: Nov 2009
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posted
I had the social withdrawal issue. I had to quit serving in leadership positions from important boards of directors in my community. I couldn't really work, didn't want to go to parties, family functions or even to the store. I didn't want to have to explain how I felt so answering "how are you?" became impossible and I was too messed up to lie or put on social graces.
My self-esteem was also blown. I had never experienced the feeling of not being capable. I felt unable to conduct complex analysis or even drive a car. I couldn't pay attention, or listen, even to my husband telling me something important. For the first time I understood what it must feel like to "feel dumb" and I realize now how truly blessed I have been.
My cognition was measurably impaired and it hurt my ability to function socially and professionally. BUT- I feel much better now. I am working in an extremely public role with tons of social appearances and public presentations and I am able to do it without stammering, heart pounding and spending 3 days in bed recovering.
Aggressive treatment has resolved the social withdrawal and self-esteem issues for me.
Posts: 524 | From Hudson Valley, NY | Registered: Jul 2007
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just don
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1129
posted
Can "I" apply for charter membership in this new club???
-------------------- just don Posts: 4548 | From Middle of midwest | Registered: May 2001
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sizzled
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1357
posted
Oh, gosh.
Of course you don't feel like being social. You don't FEEL WELL.
Your tank is on 'low' and you don't know if you'll make it to the next station for an energy refill.....
You already have 'company' and that is 'Lyme and Co.' Unwanted guests, at least.
You need to take care of you, first.
Healing wishes, all-ways.
Posts: 4258 | From over there | Registered: Jul 2001
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posted
sadly I belong to this club. went from enjoying the social whirl, dinner parties, disco till dawn etc to only wanting the sanctuary of my home and no-one in it but my cat. I just cant be bothered with anything any more. maybe hopefully somehow one day we will all quit the club.
Posts: 234 | From BC Canada | Registered: Aug 2008
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Starfall1969
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 17353
posted
Yes, I guess it is a "normal" symptom of a very abnormal disease.
Just reading your post, I really started wondering about my late mother.
My older 2 brothers are 15 and 13 years older than me, and my other brother is 3 years older.
When the older 2 were kids, my mom was into everything--den mother, homeroom mother, Sunday school teacher, had people over for dinner...
When my other brother and I were young, she was almost social phobic.
I have often wondered about that, if she was depressed or if there was something else going on.
After my dad died she became really withdrawn, and my aunt practically had to drag her out of the house to go anywhere.
Anyway....
I haven't been that bad, but yeah, I don't often feel like being around people very much.
If I'm having a good day, maybe, but otherwise, just leave me alone.
Posts: 1682 | From Dillsburg, PA | Registered: Sep 2008
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randibear
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 11290
posted
yes,most defiitely. i used to have a ton of energy, did everything and worked full time.
finally had to give up job. now i just want to stay home and be left alone.
-------------------- do not look back when the only course is forward Posts: 12262 | From texas | Registered: Mar 2007
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sutherngrl
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 16270
posted
Being ill has taken a big toll on many things. With brain fog came the withdrawal from society. For a while I could NOT carry on a conversation with anyone. It was embarrassing to even try, so I withdrew. Besides I felt too awful to do anything social.
I don't know why, but sometimes I feel like I should have at least some kind of control over my body and my health. Not having control makes me feel like a failure. I know that sounds crazy. Its not like its my fault that I'm ill; but this is just me. I like being in control!
I am learning though, that I can't always be in control. Thats the way I use to live. Everything had to be scheduled and taken care of in a timely manner. I wanted everything to be just right. I guess God is having a good time teaching me that I am NOT in control.
Anyway, I am trying to find the positive lessons in dealing with this illness. But right now my self esteem is really suffering.
Posts: 4035 | From Mississippi | Registered: Jul 2008
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