Thahabu

I’m learning how to comfort my friends without feeling used or worn out. The other day I was supposed to meet up with a new pal for a party. She was waiting for me at a park, but had a panic attack while I was getting ready. She felt woozy and said she was going to go home, but I let her know I was on my way. I asked her to stay there because I wouldn’t want her to pass out on the train. I found her in the nearby park. I’ve had panic attacks before, and dissuaded her fear that it was anything other than that. She was gonna be fine. She told me about her day. She had gotten some upsetting news earlier and thought that’s what might have triggered the attack. I listened, and gave her tips on what to do if it ever happens again. She asked me about my experiences with having panic attacks and anxiety in general. That turned into me telling her really funny stories that had us laughing and falling all over the park bench we took over.

I’ve been adamant on cutting ties with people who only talk to me when they want my help. Thankfully this friend isn’t someone who solely hits me up for emotional labor. She reciprocates the same amount of work I put into our friendship. I didn’t feel tired after our talk. It was the first time in awhile that I was able to help someone without feeling like I’d been siphoned for all my energy. ♦