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Michelle Gottlieb Psy.D., MFT, LPCC
Individual, Couple and Family Therapy
Resolving issues from your past that block your future

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Am I The Only One?
Am I the only one? That is a question that I have had asked to me often. Am I the only one that feels this way? Am I the only one that reacts this way? Am I the only one who is anxious or depressed or sad or scared? The answer is a resounding “No!”

We can be very isolated, technology can increase that tendency. When we lived with many people in one home, it was easier to check our reactions against others. It was easier to see if our reaction is a typical reaction since we can see others’ reactions. Of course, when we are feeling badly, we often isolate ourselves even more, which increases that sense of wondering if I am the only one who reacts this way.

It is perfectly normal to have feelings, all feelings, any feelings. It is only strange when we feel nothing. All feelings are normal-even if they do not make sense. It is a perfectly reasonable response to feel sad even when there are happy things going on. You may be remembering those who cannot be with you, you may be frightened of the changes that are going on in your life. Change, even good change is stressful. So, even when you are making positive changes in your life, you may have emotions that on a purely logical level do not seem appropriate. But let me tell you right now, they are a reasonable reaction, and you are not the only one who has such a response.

No, you are not the only one feeling this way. Reach out to others. Tell them what you are feeling. Listen to what they are feeling.  I would not be surprised if you find many similarities! You are not alone!

 

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