Recovery Journey - Tumblr Posts
Today I felt halfway normal and it's a huge huge step for me! In the morning I went to a botanical garden with my aunt, uncle and cousin and even though I was nervous the whole time we were there (cca. 2-3 hours), I survived!! And I saw many beautiful plants and everyday people and felt normal a couple of times while walking. When we got home, anxiety took over sadly and I had to take my meds again. It calmed me down tho' and when I got back to my dorm room, I invited my friend out to do crosswords and we ate snacks and laughed and had funny convos and I barely even thought of my problems and I am so greatful for that.
The trick is that you absolutely have to refuse to give in to sadness, everything can turn around if you decide you will go straight into the face of fear (and the less you think/take notice about your somatic symptoms, the better). I really hope tomorrow will be easier too, not only for me, but for anyone else who's reading this. I'm proud of any small progress you've made today, dear! 🌻
- Reni
I am quite afraid to write this down because usually when I say something went right in my life the next hour/day tends to punch me in the gut again, but whatever, I will say it: I had a mostly chill day. I stared my anxiety right in the eyes, told her we'll be okay, let's do this (I lowered the urge to obsessively check my symptoms/pulse to the minimum) and I managed to go to uni, finished reading my seminar paper for tomorrow, ate well, took my meds, called like 2 doctors for some questions/appointments, talked to both my grandmas, did some Headspace meditation, and just all in all cried less then I did in the past 3 days. Of course I have a lot of things going on, especially things I need to do for uni, but I try to take it one day at a time and not everything all at once. I will do the best I can in this condition. Still not willing to give up, no matter how much it hurts or how much I cry and say I'm done. I'm not done. Healing is a process. Healing is a wave.
I think C.S.Lewis was the one who said: "Courage, dear heart." Well yes, courage to my heart & mind, I'd say. It's not easy, but it's better to try step by step than to do nothing at all.
- Reni
When I'll get out of panic & generalized anxiety disorder (I want to manifest the fact that I SURELY WILL), I really really want to do something in order to help other people come out of it too and to make the ones who have zero idea about these conditions, a little bit more educated on the topic. We need to destigmatize all the untrue concepts regarding mental health issues and also regarding any kind of disability that exists out there, that people are fighting with every day. You (we) are valid! And you (we) deserve to be perceived in a non-judgemental way. I am tired of ignorant people and this ignorant worldview most tend to live by. Let's help each other in whatever way we can.
- Reni
Everything will be okay. I can do this. I will heal. This suffering is only temporary. I will be happy again.
Sorry for not updating in a long time. I've been feeling better in the last couple of days and I'm really glad, seems like the new meds work just wonderfully. I've been able to watch Eurovision on Saturday (Nemo is a sweetheart, but Baby Lasagna would've deserved that win, I'm absolutely in love with that man), I was on a family gathering on Sunday and today one of my teachers told me that my writing is really beautiful and clear, it made me so happy! I still have some symptoms that drive me nuts during the day, but overall I feel more capable of existing now and I can do things in an easier manner. I know 80% is thanks to the medication but I also needed to change my mindset regarding some things, so yeah, learning that now.
Don't give up, guys, it's worth fighting, I promise!
- Reni
Nurturing Mental Health: Taking Care of Our Well-Being
Shaina Tranquilino
September 23, 2023
It is crucial to prioritize our mental health. Just as we care for our physical well-being, nurturing our mental state is equally essential. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act in various aspects of life. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of mental health and discuss practical ways to improve it.
Understanding the Importance of Mental Health:
Mental health plays a vital role in shaping our overall quality of life. A sound state of mind enables us to cope with stressors effectively, maintain healthy relationships, make wise decisions, and contribute productively to society. Conversely, neglecting our mental well-being can lead to various challenges such as anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse issues, and even suicide.
Breaking Stigma Surrounding Mental Health:
One significant obstacle hindering progress in mental health care is the stigma attached to seeking help or discussing these issues openly. It is crucial that we break free from societal prejudices surrounding mental health by fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding. By encouraging open conversations about mental health without judgment or discrimination, we create a safe space where individuals can seek support without fear or shame.
Building Resilience through Self-Care:
Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining good mental health. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation can help reduce stress levels and foster resilience during challenging times. Prioritize self-care practices like regular exercise, healthy eating habits, sufficient sleep patterns, and engaging hobbies that provide a sense of fulfillment. Additionally, finding time for mindfulness exercises such as meditation or deep breathing techniques can significantly enhance emotional well-being.
Seeking Professional Support:
Just as we visit healthcare professionals for physical ailments, reaching out to qualified mental health professionals should be viewed similarly when facing emotional difficulties. Seeking therapy or counseling can provide valuable guidance and support, enabling us to navigate through life's challenges with confidence. Professional help is essential in managing mental health disorders effectively and developing coping mechanisms that promote long-term well-being.
Connecting Socially:
Human connections are crucial for maintaining good mental health. Cultivate healthy relationships with loved ones, friends, and colleagues by actively engaging in social activities, sharing experiences, and supporting each other. Isolation and loneliness are detrimental to mental well-being; therefore, fostering meaningful connections is key.
Reducing Stress Levels:
Managing stress levels effectively is pivotal for maintaining optimal mental health. Identify stress triggers in your life and develop strategies to minimize their impact. This may involve setting boundaries, practicing time management techniques, or learning relaxation exercises like yoga or deep breathing. Prioritizing stress reduction techniques will lead to a more balanced and calm state of mind.
Nurturing our mental health should be an ongoing priority in our lives. By understanding its importance, breaking stigma, practicing self-care, seeking professional help when needed, cultivating meaningful connections, and reducing stress levels, we can pave the way towards improved emotional well-being. Let us commit to making mental health a mainstream topic of conversation so that everyone feels comfortable addressing their needs while promoting compassion and understanding within society. Remember: it's okay not to be okay sometimes; what matters most is taking proactive steps towards nurturing our own mental health journey.