Mountain out of a molehill?

[mashedpotatohead]

I feel so utterly ridiculous even writing this but it's really bothering me....

We are moving to a new area, which I'm really looking forward to. We'll have more space, better quality of life etc

The one thing Im absolutely dreading is mixing with established mum groups in the school playground. Im sociable, chatty & friendly but extremely sensitive! I have had my fingers burnt in the past too.

I have a long history of depression & anxiety which is simmering but increases when I'm going through a change of some sort.

One of my friends said that she thinks because I'm so open, sometimes the wrong type of person taps into my vulnerability & abuses it.

I had pledged to stand back & observe before rushing straight in but now I'm worried I'll just appear stand off'ish & aloof! I drive myself nuts! Any advice would be welcome.....thank you

hmm.
In my experience, it is never easy to predict these sorts of situations with any accuracy.
I have learnt that a problem is not a problem until it is a problem ifyswim.

You are understandably concerned about it all.
But equally it could turn out fine.

Good luck.

Thanks million & clinton, much appreciated. I actually disappeared off here yesterday through fear of being flamed!

I think self acceptance a really good place to start.

I used to plan for bad outcomes that may never happen. Cbt really helped me with this, maybe I should get my notes out!

There is not much chance of being flamed on the Mental Health boards.
It is very much a support place.

Yes, I learnt to stop getting worried over stuff that may or may not happen.
Because most of the time it didnt.

Thanks million. I did think that but it shows what sort of frame of mind Im in!

I think I try to prepare for bad situations because I struggle to cope when something does happen. I do get through it though & I guess I need to believe in myself more & trust that I can do it!

Yes. I used to prepare for things, but when they didnt happen, I felt like I had wasted my time.

Also, some of things that I did worry about, when I got to there, either they were'nt quite the same as I was expecting anyway, or I was in a different frame of mind, and it wasnt much of a problem any more.

You're absolutely right million. I think I've just got into a rut of thinking in a negative way. Then somehow being grateful that something bad didnt happen. Sad really. I hadnt realised I was sliding again.

Bloody anxiety gets on my nerves!