Do I need therapy?

I didn't want to read and run.

It does sound like you have some trauma you need to work through from your childhood. I'm so sorry. I understand.

As someone who has been to therapy, I can confirm it was life changing. Find a therapist who makes you feel understood & comfortable. Don't settle for the first one if you don't feel 100%.

But just so you know, the grass isn't always greener. Just because they look rich & loved up, it doesn't mean they actually are.

You should be very proud of your accomplishments in life. Two beautiful children & a loving family & a stable career.

If you feel like you're missing out on friendship groups, maybe go out of your comfort zone and join a club. Maybe a running or walking club. Reading? Cooking? Gym?

Your people are out there!

Mayfair is sooo pretentious, and the attractive 20-24 year olds don’t have money, it’s the parents that have money and they are probably like you having a special occasion meal or not, but who cares. And the lived up couple… probably a man and his mistress! Jokes, what I’m trying to say we don’t know what’s happening in other peoples life’s you only saw a tiny little window. But what we do know is that It’s lovely for your mum to take you out for a meal, and you have two beautiful children. Also doesn’t matter how your kids came to this world but they’re always going to be your kids! You don’t need therapy, birthdays. Christmas and valentines days always work so many women up it makes a lot of us a bit mad. Chin up and send you love!

I think most people can gain something from good therapy. It’s like learning how to stretch physically. All of us have right spots that need some love and attention, and therapy can help you deal with that.

Ah, as others have said you have no idea what's going on in their lives and what a shame it spoilt a special meal with your mum - I think counselling would definitely help you see the wood for the trees

Sorry to hear about this upset you. I'd say (as someone who has had lots of therapy!), that most people can benefit from it if they find a good therapist. Gaining an understanding of yourself and your reactions to things can be hugely helpful. I've found therapy useful for impacting how I parent too, so I'm more conscious of it passing on some of my insecurities etc... Just the bullying you experienced alone, would be useful to unpick. It's obviously left a mark (as it often does) that still triggers you in situations. So I'm all for it. Just find yourself a therapist you click with. It's a bit like dating, you have to find the right one for you. You should feel comfortable in their presence (they should make the effort to make you feel this way) and they should be able to broach difficult subjects, concepts and perspectives in a way you understand, but delivered in a kind and respectful way. They should also mainly be promoting you to look inward and examine your own thoughts and feelings. Best of luck, I hope if you go ahead, it helps you understand yourself better.

I hear you op. It’s why I try to stay away from places like that. I have family members who like to go to places like that but I just come away feeling discontented with myself.

Comparison is the thief of joy.

As others have said you have no idea what is going on in other people's lives.

If you can afford therapy it might help. I think you sound very together. Two kids as a single parent is a tough gig.