This week I’ve read several articles relating to mental health and the need to keep the conversation moving forward and not confining it to a bubble. Here’s the one that got me thinking.
Mental health is about a lot of things.
It’s not just those huge clinical diagnoses of conditions like bi-polar or schizophrenia, it’s also about sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction…. The list goes on.
Globally 2020 has been a tough year. The pandemic stress and fatigue have brought out the best in people, and perhaps the not so good in others. Everyone’s mental health has been, and continues to be, affected in one way or another.
This Christmas (or Hanukkah/Winter Holidays/Santa-Time…)–or whatever you celebrate–take the time to check in on your own mental health.
If you’re feeling extra grumpy, that’s okay. Maybe go for a walk. Go scream in the hills at the top of your lungs to your hearts content, just don’t take your angst out on someone else–physically, verbally, or spiritually.
Try and stay aware of your substance intake–whether alcohol, weed, sugar, or whatever–because the crash after can be devastating. Setting limits can be difficult but it’s worth a try.
Don’t try and be something (or someone) you’re not. Pretending is so exhausting, isn’t it?
Make sure you’re getting the sleep you need.
And, allow yourself to mourn your losses–letting yourself feel that grief may be what you need. Whether that loss is a friend or family member or perhaps it’s just an overwhelming feeling of losing normal… It’s okay to have a good cry or sit in the sadness–just know when to shake it off and get going again.
Be alert. Be aware.
If you know someone who suffers from depression, check in on them. It doesn’t take much…A phone call or video chat. It can make all the difference in the world for someone who’s created a protective bubble around themselves.
Teen mental health is imperative too. Here’s some things to make sure they’re doing ok. or share this letter with them.
Remember too that there is professional help lines if you find yourself in crisis.
In Canada you can call: 1-833 456-4566 or check the website here.
In USA you can call: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or check the website here.
Canada/USA: If you’re in danger or the situation is an emergency dial 9-1-1
Wishing you all a Happy Everything for this Holiday season. Be well. Take care of yourself and those around you too. xo
Thanks, Faye, for keeping us alert to mental health problems. There’s another condition that’s frequently misdiagnosed: soul sickness. Yes, it’s a thing. It’s even listed in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). It presents exactly like depression, but it isn’t so does not respond to anti-depressants. It means your soul wants something other than what it currently has. In other words, your life needs an overhaul. If your depression persists despite treatment, you may have soul sickness.
Thanks Aggie! That is so interesting. I’ve never heard of it but sure understand the idea of the need for change. Thx for the important info for those who are searching for change. Xo
Great post and good reminder to be aware of our mental health. Merry Christmas 🎄 Faye!
Thanks Azilde! Stay healthy physically and mentally.
Thank you! You as well and happy new year 🎆🎊
Yes! Happy New Year….we’re finally in the last stretch of 2020…Yay!!