Mmm! Many of us come out of our childhoods being told who others think we are or believing the messages from our experiences. For example, I was told by my mum that I should never learn to drive as I was too dreamy and would kill someone. I learnt to drive successfully, but couldn't pass my test as I went to pieces, much to the frustration of everyone, even the examiner, who said I knew I could drive, he knew I could drive, but I had to do the manuveuves! I've been driving for years now and no I haven't had any accidents. This was about my mums fears that she projected onto me. And yes I appeared dreamy as I escaped into a dream world as a protection. She also said I wasn't very bright and up to much and would never have a successful marriage. Well I became a teacher and am very happily married.
What I am saying is that you don't have to believe what others say about you. It is usually about them rather than you. We all get stressed and that's ok. Don't be frightened of this or think there is something wrong with you. It's a matter of accepting and loving yourself as you are and finding the joy in the little things.
Claiming benefits is very difficult and stressful. It seems wrong that when people really need financial support, it is often at a difficult time of their lives and they have the stress of jumping through hoops. My daughter has had to claim housing benefit and it took months to come through. What would have happened if we were unable to lend the rent money that we could ill afford, I don't know.
Do you have any support from family and friends?