It is being scared and tired all at once,

Feeling guilty as if you’ve done something vile, with no defence,

No rest, no peace, no safe retreat,

The world feels hostile, and your hope is defeat.

It’s fearing failure, yet lacking the drive to even try,

Watching life drift past with a heavy sigh,

No words or will power can lift your head,

Your spirit drained, your light long fled.

You long for friends but can’t find your voice,

In crowds you’re mute but not by choice,

Craving connection, warmth and trust,

But no pity shown, not even a crust.

You need your space but dread being alone,

A quiet room turns colder than stone,

Weeks slip by with barely a sound

Just your own inner voice reverberating around.

You care too deeply, then nothing at all,

Tears one moment then manic laughter against the wall,

wanting to join in and to play your part,

but you do nothing, and then just fall apart.

You feel it all then suddenly you’re numb,

Empathy all spent, not a sliver will come,

So stay with me please as this weight I must bear,

Just doing my best and saying, I will try to be there.