August 17, 2026 Ease Your Mind

 Recently I've seen more and more information and awareness of mental health.  I also realize that most people are not comfortable talking about it.  If you are one of those, you may want to skip this.

I've been open about my reality with mental illness.  Right from the start, I want to make it clear that the one thing I will not tolerate is being referred to as "crazy", nor will I accept anyone else being labeled the same.  What that shows is a blatant ignorance of the subject.

Looking back, I've found that my difficulties were evident as a teen, I just didn't know what it was.  Ha, the beauty of hindsight.  Now, I can understand why teen suicide happens.  That is when we, as humans, are so much more vulnerable and impressionable.

I've gone through my share of therapists, some good, some really not.  If I may, I have to say there is nothing more frustrating than going for help, and having the immediate concern dismissed and having it turned into something else, not even related.  I never did find the ideal therapist, but did gain small increments of wisdom along the way.

Now, I have a fabulous practitioner who has experience, common sense, and the ability to listen.  She has a multi prong approach; bloodwork, no more medication than is indicated, and vigilant evaluations each time.  She saved me, and continues to do so.

I've learned the difference between real anxiety and everyday life struggles.  I think I've developed good coping skills to manage everyday.  There are still crossovers, however, which is what I'm experiencing now.  I know this when It affects my sleep, and my sleep score reflects that.

I know its ugly head is rearing when I implement a coping mechanism that doesn't help. For example, I got my mower out yesterday.  Usually, I get that dopamine hit when the job is done and the results are good.  Not this time.  I was plagued with very unsettling dreams and scored just "okay".  I question if it was even that.

Today, my kitchen counter has ingredients set out for some baking, laundry to finish, and various sundry chores.  I need a few groceries but not in a good place to be out and about.  I'm weary over hearing "I never see you anymore".  We haven't moved, so if the concern was real...

Struggling with mental health issues does not make me incompetent, unable to function, or unstable.  It means I know when I'm more comfortable at home, not being afraid of saying "no", and not missing a frantic social life and obligations.  I have to say, I've gotten very adept at protecting my peace, even when it means cutting any threat to that out with no regret or apology.  Does that sound selfish?  I don't care.

If you understand what I've laid out, thank you for your patience. ☘


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