I'm not sure what kind of feedback I want, to be perfectly honest! But I feel like writing these things is a useful exercise, both to get my own thoughts in order and to make this sort of thing more visible. Personally, I find it reassuring to know I share these kinds of experiences with others, so maybe the reverse would also be true.

Thank you for your comment. ♥ I have a tendency to rationalize as well– my therapist has called me on it more than once– I always told myself not to make a big deal and handle my life on my own. Which isn't how mental illness works, of course... but it's amazing what you can make yourself believe.