Dear Dorothy,
I have never felt good enough. My parents have been nothing but loving and supportive but I was badly bullied at school. I don’t know why these people disliked me so much. I developed obsessive-compulsive disorder as a teenager and now also suffer from a general anxiety disorder.
Recently I met some old adversaries. They pointed and laughed at me and I fear bumping into them again. I am 28 and my partner and I have just bought a house together. If you met me, you would think I am a bubbly girl with no worries.
I have had cognitive behavioural therapy. Apart from this, I am fully functional. I work and have a good social life. I just can’t escape the constant self-doubt. Please say something that will enable me to realise I need to pull myself together.
Yours Sincerely,
S.O
Dear S.O
Being bullied is an appalling experience and because you were subjected to that sort of cruelty it has left you feeling that you are not good enough. Tell yourself that you are not going to let these bullies still get to you. Try to see bullies as they really are – pathetic, weak, and not worth worrying about.
Bumping into them has probably tipped you into this current anxiety. If you see them again walk tall, look confident – and indifferent – and go on your way. But first I want you to get help to be more assertive and believe in yourself – remember my words, you are worth believing in.
Yours Truly,
Dorothy