First of all, you do not sound "stupid" to express your feelings of helplessness and loneliness as a result of Rosacea. It may not be as serious to others as cancer or other diseases but for you it is a big deal and you feel it has wrecked your life. I am sure many people on this forum can fully sympathize with your despair. It has changed your life. What you must do now is get your life back and be stronger than the rosacea. You can learn a lot if you browse through the posts on this forum. I think you will find many people as desperate as you who thought their life was over but who have gotten better, learned to cope and have found that life does go on and they can enjoy it.
First you must find a doctor who will help you control the rosacea. You said you were diagnosed but you did not say if you are being treated. You need to try antibiotics, you need to find mild cleansers for your skin (I like Cetaphil facial cleanser) and you should try topical medications as well. Metrogel (or the generic, metronidazole) seems to be beneficial for many. FInacea if you have red bumps.
But, you need more than medicine for your body and face. You need to get some counseling and emotional help. Can you see a therapist to help you through this? Reach out to your friends and family again. I don't think they broke off the relationship with you, I think you withdrew from them. Being alone, at home, is the worst thing you can do. Get out into the world again and find something to enjoy. You mentioned a career, are you still working? Do some volunteering....help others who are having a hard time. I know it is hard because you think everyone is starring at you....well, let them stare. If they ask questions, name your condition and say it is really a bummer but you are trying to deal with it. The worst thing you can do is to stay home and become a recluse.
We all have felt your pain, some more than others, and we will all be pulling for you to improve both your rosacea and your ability to cope with it. Keep us posted!
LoisAnne
