I'm so sorry this is happening to you! When my thoughts are in a downward spiral grounding exercises work amazing, like playing catch against a wall, listing 5 things I can see, four things I can touch etc. Or trying to think of a plant/famous person/animal for every letter of the alphabet. This helps get me through the short-term when the long-term feels overwhelming.
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Oh man, thanks so much.
I completely forgot about all of my usual strategies like this, I really needed the reminder.
I know this isn't always possible, but if you can, type out a list and keep it somewhere you'll see it/be able to quickly access it. It's a trick my counselor told me, and it's been a huge help. Even just going through the motion of getting it can help kick your brain out of the cycle.
Dude, I have been there with stalkers twice. One was a customer at a previous job (she had a history of violent offenses) and the other was an ex gf (she was a county sheriff). It's scary af and exhausting. What I learned from abuse therapy is that stalkers are the people that don't give a shit about boundaries. They only understand consequences. I highly recommend getting an injunction/restraining order. If it's not granted, they'll tell you what you need for it to be granted next time, so you can set that in motion. It also helps cops investigate and helps you file charges should "something odd" happen.
Stay safe, stay sane, and remember that it's not your fault, no matter what her deranged mouth says.
You have gotten through the dark before & you will again. Life will continue to jab at your anxiety. Work on your tools while you're in a good place so they're sharp & ready when you need them. You are fighting the good fight & you can make it
Thanks everyone for the kind words and advice. I'm doing alright now, and with the help of some friends I've taken steps to keep myself safe.
It's going to be a bit harder for a little bit, but I'm confident I can get through this!
Hey, if it's any consolation, life is tough and no one is really ever safe.