An evaluation

A couple of weeks ago I agreed to check out our local family counseling center, partly to make my PA happy. At least that made him laugh. I have been trying unsuccessfully to deal with some issues that are causing anxiety problems. I had an evaluation appointment recently and as I was looking over the results I wondered if the person who was conducting the meeting was even listening to what I said. I have an excellent memory and know how I answered her questions.

One of the answers that bugged me was when she asked what would my friends say about me. My answer was, that I am honest and loyal. Her answer was that I am a good writer. Well I am, but that's not what I said.

Another difference in answers occurred when she asked how many hours of sleep I get at night. I explained that because of new blood pressure medication I am taking every 8 hours I have to wake up to take it. Also because of back problems I sometimes have leg cramps. What she wrote was,"I will know I am ready for discharge when I am sleeping through the night." Excuse me?!

My long term objective according to her is to be sleeping well, be less anxious and have a good relationship with my daughter. That last part is never going to happen. My daughter decided over seven years ago that she wants nothing more to do with me. I have decided to grant her wish and stop trying to have a relationship with her. The effort was much like hitting my head against a stone wall thinking it would eventually feel better. I'm not doing that anymore.

The question that I had to think the most about was, "What was the happiest time in your life." I finally answered, "when I found out my 3rd child was a girl, after having two boys."

There was one question I wish I had answered differently and that was, "Where do you see your life in five years?" My answer was, "I have a book I would like to get published." If I could change that answer it would be, " I would like to have a mate who understands me."

I had to laugh when in conclusion I was told, "You aren't depressed." No kidding! Who said I was?

Whether or not counseling sessions will help me is yet to be determined. I'll check back with you later on that one.