Reducing the stigma around mental health
By Lyndsay Please note that this post includes information and discussion of sexual assault that some readers may find distressing. Come in, come in, Sorry we’re running a little bit late. Have a seat. Shut the door behind you. I think it’s time we had a little chat, don’t you? Continue Reading
By Lindsay From some of my other musings, you may have picked up that I’ve lost a couple of jobs in my time. Two due to my mental ill health, but I’ve also been made redundant. I’ve been to a decent number of job interviews, and have worked out some Continue Reading
By Lindsay A significant cause of some of my mental distress and dysfunction over the years has come from a relatively recently discovered realisation. Namely, I’ve tried too hard to protect both myself and others from strong emotions, either positive or negative. Coping mechanisms I’m sure we’re all familiar with Continue Reading
They’re all different, but with one common theme – I can rely on them to lift my mood, and sometimes even gently probe at my other locked away feelings.
I recently had a flash of inspiration about things I’ve done despite being riddled with social anxiety. There’s definitely a determined streak in me.
There’s the little seed in me that focuses on the future, on being ‘better’. I don’t know what ‘better’ looks like yet, and nor do I expect a miracle cure.
Am I really still too ill to work? It will get to a point where I can only know by trying. Of course, the thought of trying is hugely anxiety-inducing.
These things help me get through those days that can loom above us like impossibly steep, overbearing mountains. The little things are key to survival.
When I gave myself some time to breathe, I discovered my seeds: the qualities, passions, and feelings that make me who I am.
Every day is different. Some days are harder fights than others, but understanding and care of our own minds is something we should never take for granted.
It’s hard to accept, but having chronic mental ill-health and taking medication every day has a significant impact on what I’m physically able to do.
I could really do without fluctuating moods that confuse and overwhelm me. I could do without quietly wondering what my chances of having kids are.