This is what I’ve learned on my journey that I want others to know:
“There is going to be peaks and valleys, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, in everyone’s challenging, blind road map which we stand before in existence. Having your very own way of coping through hard times, and making change, is a continuous endeavor. I find it a challenge, which brings the best in my critical thought. Some dark clouds are followed by more; some are followed by sunshine. What difference do I make with my choices, my thoughts and my energy toward positive change? Believe, have hope, and know that nothing lasts forever, even the hardest of times. Choose you, your music, paper and pen, a nature show or walk…it has to be what works for each individual. I’m hopeful and thankful each day, knowing that I have been given another chance to live, when in some of my darkest, I didn’t want to. In those moments, I knew what to do…at times to call a friend, other times to hit the gym, other times to jam loud on music. There is no one fits all. Educate w/ professional help.“
On my hardest day, I wish I could have told myself this:
“That you’re not trapped. And when you feel that feeling, reach out to your people and let them know. We’ve all been there, and we can help others when they are. Also – baby steps are bigger than you think. A shower. A walk. A meal. A little forward progression goes a long way.“
This is what I’ve learned on my journey that I want others to know:
“You’ve got to feel it to heal it! We develop all sorts of strategies to avoid painful emotions that can leave us suffering in the long run. Sometimes, just sitting down to allow space for the uncomfortable emotion to be acknowledged is enough to clear the shame & judgment.“
On my hardest day, I wish I could have told myself this:
“This pain is temporary. You may feel like there is no way out of the fog of depression and anxiety, but if you do the work, one day you will wake up and be better. You will want to get out of bed and enjoy the day. You will be present with your loved ones. Make the therapy appointment and take the advice. Learning to cope with trauma can immensely change your life for the better.“