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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

See all MNHQ comments on this thread

To wish I could post on MN without people disbelieving me?

32 replies

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:32

Does anybody else feel the same?

I have had two threads on Mumsnet recently. I am in a terrible situation, truly terrible. Both times I have had a few good replies then a nasty, cynical one then a total pile on of people not believing me.

I wish there was a Mumsnet verifier who you could send evidence to, like letters from the Council, etc to prove you are telling the truth. They could be volunteers?

In the worst times of my life, like now, I have had Mumsnet to turn to. But now I find myself met with nastiness and people picking holes in my story, just for the fun of it.

OP posts:
CeciliaDuckiePond · 26/08/2025 18:38

I have seen MNHQ come onto threads with a high degree of troll-hunting to a. delete the troll hunting posts and b. vouch for the OP so far as is within their power (i.e. they can never be totally sure and will give that caveat but will say there is nothing to suggest OP is not genuine) so my advice would be to report those posts and ask MNHQ to intervene. People should report your posts if they doubt you, not troll hunt on the thread as this is against talk guidelines; in my experience that is a guideline MNHQ enforce.

Arlanymor · 26/08/2025 18:40

I don’t think anyone would volunteer to read your personal information, even with your consent. It’s a very slippery slope in terms of GDPR at the very least. I think if people don’t believe you then there’s nothing you can do about it except to ignore them. You could continue talking to those on the thread who believe you, but don’t waste any time fretting over why you are not believed - it’s not like you know any of them in real life, which would be a different matter.

Geranium879 · 26/08/2025 18:41

There are some right pricks on here. Some people literally just join threads to pick holes and be nasty. You just have to completely block it out / skim past those ones.

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:41

But once people start doubting your story, other people stop offering advice.

OP posts:
savoycabbage · 26/08/2025 18:43

I think part of it is that the site has grown so much and also I think people are less tolerant in real life. Mind you, when I needed MN fifteen years ago I was absolutely destroyed by awful people.

beefthief · 26/08/2025 18:43

Does this actually happen, though?

CreepyCoupe · 26/08/2025 18:43

I think because so many threads on here now are works of fiction, the legitimate ones can be viewed with suspicion too.

RedNine · 26/08/2025 18:44

Without knowing your prev usernames we can't say much about your own situation, only to reiterate to report posts you feel step over a line.

LikeWhoUsesTypewritersAnyway · 26/08/2025 18:44

Problem is @SunOverTheCowShed we see so many bullshit threads on here/troll posts/AI fake threads, that people are instantly skeptical when they see some threads. So unfortunately, genuine threads/posters like you get caught in the crossfire. I am sorry this has happened to you. And I hope you're OK. Flowers

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:47

I would be more than happy to share proof with someone on here who could then vouch for me. If there was anyone nosy enough (and I don’t mean that nastily).

OP posts:
RedNine · 26/08/2025 18:50

Please don't share any identifying personal information with anybody on here. Please.

We all must remember that not everyone is who they say they are on the internet.

Ella31 · 26/08/2025 18:50

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:47

I would be more than happy to share proof with someone on here who could then vouch for me. If there was anyone nosy enough (and I don’t mean that nastily).

For your own security I wouldn't. You don't know who you are talking to. I understand how hard it is to not be supported but you dont owe any of those people anything either.

GarlicLitre · 26/08/2025 18:52

beefthief · 26/08/2025 18:43

Does this actually happen, though?

Well that's QED if ever anything was 👀

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:52

I’m so alone 😭

OP posts:
NoCommentingFromNowOn · 26/08/2025 18:53

It’s very hit and miss here. Wrong spelling? Wrong format? Fuck you, fuck your problems, just go away and die alone you scum.

But someone takes a liking to you? Even when you ask for your thread to be deleted they’ll be talking about an offline support group for you, starting their own support thread for you.

I can’t imagine there is anywhere less likely to help me with any problems I might have to be honest.

Reddit can be good, the subs can be very specific so are tailored to your exact issue.

ThatCyanCat · 26/08/2025 18:53

beefthief · 26/08/2025 18:43

Does this actually happen, though?

That took me a moment!

GarlicLitre · 26/08/2025 18:54

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:47

I would be more than happy to share proof with someone on here who could then vouch for me. If there was anyone nosy enough (and I don’t mean that nastily).

Oh, no, don't!!

The thing to do is report the troll-hunters and completely ignore those replies. Continue as if they never posted.

It is an absolute bummer when you're feeling vulnerable, though. Sympathies Flowers

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:55

The thing is, when the trolls start, the genuine people leave the thread.

OP posts:
CeciliaDuckiePond · 26/08/2025 18:55

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 18:47

I would be more than happy to share proof with someone on here who could then vouch for me. If there was anyone nosy enough (and I don’t mean that nastily).

Really, don't do this - you will put yourself at risk. Report each and every post to MNHQ and let them deal with it.

If you think troll hunters may be stalking you online, in addition to the above, change your username regularly and try to use random-ish names rather than variations on a theme.

Barney16 · 26/08/2025 18:57

If you are in real difficulty then real life advice is surely preferable to online advice. I know that there is a whole wealth of wisdom on here but I don't think sharing personal and private information that can identify you is the way to go. If it's legal advice you need a solicitor or citizens advice. If it's housing or benefits or child development related find your nearest family hub or children's centre and ask for help. There will be someone who can assist you. I suppose what I'm advocating is objective professional advice.

JustPassingThruHere · 26/08/2025 18:58

You care far too much about the opinions of strangers. Step back and reassess life priorities. Online people have no investment in your feelings so accept some will be nice, mean or neutral.

There are a lot of scammers, attention seekers, liars and just bored people who like to rage bait so not everyone can wisely and justly discern everything.

Accept that as par for coarse and definitely don't post real info on a public forum!!!!!

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 19:02

I need support and advice as I am at breaking point. I have exhausted all RL options, like the council, the hospital, my MP, Councillor… no one cares. I think they’re hoping I’ll kill myself so they don’t have to answer my emails anymore!

OP posts:
CoralMumsnet · 26/08/2025 19:04

Hi everyone, we’d like to gently remind everyone to keep our discussions respectful and supportive. Please avoid calling out or targeting others in threads. Let’s continue fostering a kind and welcoming space for all.

Coral

SunOverTheCowShed · 26/08/2025 19:06

I’ve let my Mum down. I’m a terrible person. I will NEVER forgive myself.

OP posts:
jhmlwos · 26/08/2025 19:06

I understand what you mean OP.

many years ago I went through a horrific time, for a long time. I posted frequently on infertility which was a safe, genuine space.

i went on to adopt two, then have two and that space has clearly gone. rightly so.

but it can be hard to find somewhere else to talk, vent, grieve, whatever.

there is some super support available here. Stay off aibu. Look for specific threads relating to what you are going through. Look for specific topics.

hope you are ok.