WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2023

Today isn’t just for those who are suffering or going through something. World mental health day is for people to increase their awareness, knowledge, and understanding regarding mental health. There are many stigmas, still, regarding mental health. On this world mental health day, here are a couple of reminders to keep in mind.

the phrase mental health on a sheet of fabric

-You don’t have to be clinically diagnosed to experience anxiety, depression, panic attack, or any other type of disorder. Our everyday life experiences may cause us to have a bout of anxiety or depression. It doesn’t have to be something big or major life event. I had a coworker just express how she wasn’t doing well. It wasn’t anything specific. But she said I turned 60 this year, mom just passed, dealing with insurance and packing her home, my daughter turned 18, I’m in a long distance relationship and I don’t know if I should downsize or move. Sorting through all that at once does takes away some of the spunk she usually has.

-Mental illness doesn’t have a “look”. We should get rid of this idea that there is a look. Often times it’s the least person we expect to battle a mental health issue.

-Fighting through pain and tears isn’t a sign of strength . Actually saying I’m tired, stressed, need a break, confused, have too much going on, feel off, is a sign of strength. Just think back to when someone found out you were going through something and you didn’t tell them right away, they were upset . Why? Because they wanted to help. They love and care for you. Even if it’s just to be an ear. You’re never alone.

-Your courage to speak up and say “I’m not ok” will inspire others to say “you know I’m not either.” That goes for women and men. Then guess what, you all can work through and be each other support systems. You don’t have to do it alone. 6 MENTAL HEALTH REMINDERS FOR BAD DAYS

-Find you a safe space. Most people probably grew up with a family or environment where saying I’m not ok wasn’t supported or welcomed. Therefore, they learned to suppress and deny their feelings. Find a friend or two, coworker, journal, pastor, or even stranger. I’ve come to learn most of the time we just want to get it out . No response needed. A solution doesn’t need to be offered. Just hear me out. I don’t know how many times working from home and talking to people all over the country I had lengthy conversations with. I’m talking 2 hours. Yes, I eventually got a policy written, but allowing them to vent their frustration and anger, validating their feelings, and offering encouragement through sharing something similar left them with hope and motivation. Many times I heard thank you for listening and talking to me. I can’t talk to my family because they just blow me off. Sometimes talking to strangers is easier than talking to family. No judgement, fear, or gaslighting.

-Learn to cope through the experiences and emotions. Acknowledge whatever you are feeling or thinking. Ask yourself why am I feeling like this or responding in this manner. What do I need to feel better. Is it attainable. If not, how can I ensure I’m ok without it. What can I do on a daily to help me mentally prepare myself. Denying or delaying your emotions only makes it snow ball. Which can lead to other unhealthy behaviors.

-There’s absolutely nothing wrong with talking to a therapist. Some go monthly, weekly, or when needed. One day at work a coworker said I’m going to be late coming back from lunch because I needed an appointment with a therapist. I’m just crying too much and overly emotional. PERFECT!!!!!!

If you feel ok that is amazing and awesome. Please share with others how you do it. In the meantime, check on your loved ones. Those that are short fused, always seem triggered, overly emotional, not showing any emotion, angry all the time, never have anything good to say, sleeping too much, not sleeping at all, drinking or binge eating, no appetite, always happy, never angry or sad, nothing ever bothers them, or withdrawn all needs to be checked on.

Lastly, on this world mental health day, check in with you. You come first. Make sure you’re available, overflowing, and whole before pouring into someone else. How are you doing? What do you need? Nothing is ever too small or too big.

World mental health day is a day for us to increase awareness, understanding, and knowledge to support ourselves and others.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WHAT DEPRESSION LOOKS LIKE…

I’ve read many stories and watched many videos on individuals trying to explain their encounters of people questioning if they are really depressed. There are many misconceptions on what depression looks and feel like.

I was reading a comment, forgive me I can’t remember which site, but she caught an Uber ride home. The driver naturally sparked a conversation and asked her about her day. She explained to him she was leaving her appointment with her therapist because she’s battling depression. His response was, ”you don’t look depressed.”

Of course, she felt the need to explain why she doesn’t look depressed. Furthermore, proceeded to briefly explain to him not everyone carry’s their depression on the outside.

That lead me to thinking. There are many people walking around dealing with depression and life and we have no clue. Depression isn’t always ugly, sleeping all day, crying, not eating, and withdrawn.

Depression Can Also Look Like:

The car pool mom that’s always smiling wishing the kids a great day and cheering them on, on the way to school.

That single mother working two jobs, making it look easy, and doing it with hair, nails, and makeup done.

That office worker who make sure the company doesn’t miss a beat. The go to person in the office that make sure everyone is ok.

That coach or teacher coming to school everyday giving all they have to ensure our kids has the best education and chance possible.

That waiter or waitress who is always smiling and looks happy to be at work serving your favorite dish.

The bus driver greeting you on the bus every morning, afternoon, or evening.

The kid that is the star athlete at their school.

The kid who has a 4.0 and makes it look effortless.

That stay at home mom that everyone wish they can have the life of.

And a million others out there, doing an amazing job hiding their depression.

The point is, just because someone isn’t crying, doesn’t mean they aren’t having dark thoughts and emotions. Usually, it’s the person we least expect. It’s important now more than ever to check up on your loved one’s, coworkers, and friends. WELLNESS: EVEN THE STRONGEST NEEDS A BREAK Unfortunately, what depression look like isn’t always the same.

To be clear, there are many forms of depression. If you or anyone you know are having dark feelings or thoughts and need to talk to someone please seek professional help. You are worth it. You are special and you matter.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be fee.

5 SELF LOVE TIPS FOR ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Depression, anxiety, mental exhaustion , social anxiety, being drained, emotionally depleted, and whatever else one may describe being in a state of darkness. Here a 5 self love tips for anxiety and depression. At some point in our lives we’re all going to feel some form of it, some of us more than once. Here are a couple of things you can do now to fight depression and anxiety.

Admit how you are feeling. Say whatever it is. Don’t try to minimize or rationalize the pain, that will only make things worse. The biggest mistake we make is we brush it off, pretend like its not real, it will go away on its own, or we are simply embarrassed and upset at ourselves for falling into a depression . If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to someone about it, write it down. Another thing you can do is speak it to yourself. Take a walk, speak it out loud, give it a voice. Once you’ve honestly vocalized how you feel you’re able to take the next step in healing. Self Care Mental Health Tips
Make small goals or take baby steps. Write a list of things you’ll like to accomplish or correct to get you where you want to be. Then make an action plan on how to tackle each one step by step. This will give you a visual to check your progress and with each step you accomplish the confidence will build back up. So often we want to fix or tackle everything at once. Trying to “fix” everything at once will have you bouncing back and forth and with so many projects started you’ll become overwhelmed. Starting with something small and completing it gives a sense of accomplishment and motivation to push forward.
Don’t compare yourself to others in real life or on social media. That will kill any progress you make or stop you from even starting. Take a break from social media. Remember what you see on social media is filtered, a snap shot, and a persona that someone has created. So you comparing yourself to a fictional representation isn’t worth your heart ache. Focus on yourself and the journey you’re walking.
Validate yourself. Yes I know we have many voids in our hearts that need to be filled, but guess what, searching for that void other than God and yourself will leave you empty every time. Please know, feel, and believe the void of a loved one has nothing to do with you. It has everything to do with them and what they are going through. Don’t take ownership of someone else’s baggage. LOVE YOURSELF MORE THAN ANYONE ELSE
There’s only one you in this world. Own it. You are perfect, unique, and have gifts and talents that no one else has. Discover your gift or what you love to do and nurture it. But don’t be upset when someone doesn’t like what you have to offer. They don’t have to and that’s ok. In the same breath don’t sway with the wind to get someone to like you.

Self love is in the name. It begins with self. Know that you are strong enough to withstand another storm. You’ve been a survivor before and will continue to rise. Give yourself some credit. Remember when things are easy, you’re not growing. These were just 5 self love tips for anxiety and depression. I’m pretty sure there are millions more, but this is a great foundation and start for anyone.

So in the next storm you’re in, put that umbrella up, stay dry and wait for the rainbow to shine when it’s over.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.