Job Discussion Forums

[A.K.A.T.D.N.]

Hey, this is AKATDN, and I'm kind of in a bad way right now. I know I've said some pretty bizarre stuff on these boards, but I guess I've been going through a funk again, kind of lost.

I feel as if Taiwan is all right, but it seems the only thing to do is to withdraw into yourself here in Taipei and try to keep from appearing abnormal. The people in Taiwan aren't at all bothersome. But I've found that if you want to be a decent guy and do the right thing, you're often at odds with everyone else. I've often gone on terrible drinking binges as a result, making this an excuse.

Anyone else having problems trying to make sense of your life here? Anyone struggling with drinking out there? Teaching seems to drain all your energy, making you feel as if you need some kind of reprieve, or place to go to forget about it all. Can't say I'm doing good at my choices in this department, other than clinging to this board now and then to give me something to do. Fact is, I don't want to blow it here like I've done in Korea, but this week I got so bombed I passed out in the streets and someone lifted my Visa Card. Then I ran into some Africans who appeared to be into voodo or something and got irate when I mentioned I didn't care for one of these fortune-tellers hanging outside a bar. Guess I'm just trying to find the norm again, but it's quite a struggle seeing you've got no where to turn but inward.

Feel like a depressed, despairing dog.

[Taylor]

Dear AKATDN,

In all seriousness, it is my understanding that Alcoholics Anonymous has an English-speaking chapter (group) in Taipei. Perhaps someone could provide an address or a phone number.

You really do need some professional help. Maybe you can find a minister, also.

Life as an English teacher really isn't all that tough. You seem to have chosen a career which allows you to effectively 'bang your head against a wall'....and then use your job as an excuse for drinking and other abnormal behaviors.

Get some help....before you hurt yourself and others.

Sincerely,

Taylor
Texas/Taiwan

[logician]

[A.K.A.T.D.N.]

Thanks for the advice. I'm quite adept to the culture thing. If there is an AA group here, I'd join. Just email me and tell me where to go.

[myesl]

Here you go, my friend.

http://www.aataiwan.atfreeweb.com/english.htm

Good luck.

[Ki]

It isn't the teaching that drains all of my energy in Taiwan but everything else, mainly related to teaching. Having to deal with a crap recruiter and the many many problems I have through them, I know, I know, an hour long commute each way to work, Taipei traffic, insomnia, regulations, the mentality of SOME people in Taiwan, taxi drivers, Taipei traffic (this needs to be mentioned twice).

There are a lot of good things, and good people, I like here. Sometimes it is difficult to maintain a positive outlook. I enjoy my job, the other teachers, and (most of) the children. Good luck.
Ki.

[Aristotle]

Find a hobby outside of the pub/bar.
Alcoholics Anonymous,

Kaohsiung: (07) 731-5238

Taichung: (04) 425?510

Tainan: (06) 209-8552

Taipei: (02) 2836-6994 and (02) 2500-3039



Good luck,
A.