@thelostsoul Can understand how you feel as to being labeled. Try not to allow your fear to prohibit you from seeking out help. The family physician is usually a place to start. You do not need to “spill your guts”. A family doctor is a stepping stone in seeking out where to go for some input.

Hello, @thelostsoul.

I am pleased to hear that you have taken off your mask here at Mayo Connect and you have let us see who you are. There are many people on Connect who have used this forum to "take off their masks" and revealed that person inside the mask. Many of them have found compassion, understanding and have begun to "take off their mask" in other areas of their life as well.

I would encourage you, as others have done, to decide to remove that mask to at least one other person. Perhaps a compassionate person like a guidance counselor, former teacher, pastor, the mother of a friend or your doctor. Just talk a bit about that mask and why you wear it and what it keeps you from doing and being. As you begin the process of "unmasking" you can get help to see the future with the "real you."

I look forward to hearing from you. Will you post again?