I’ve mentioned before how writing is a form of therapy to me—it’s a method of relaxation (or venting, depending on my mood), finding a way to articulate the many thoughts I struggle to speak out loud, and reaching others who may have similar experiences. One minute I’m reflecting on current events, and the next I’m…
depression
Thoughts for World Mental Health Day and Beyond
I usually prepare a post in advance for days like today, but while I did know in the back of my mind that today is World Mental Health Day and October 7-13 is Mental Health Awareness Week, writing hasn’t been a primary focus the last couple months. And, if I’m being completely honest, I’ve been…
10 Ways I Manage My Anxiety
Several months ago I received an email from a woman who’d read my post on antidepressants. She was so thoughtful and brave by reaching out to me and sharing a few details about her own anxiety and decision to begin taking an antidepressant, and I truly hope that she is doing well today. I love…
How To Support Mental Health Awareness Month
May is recognized annually as Mental Health Awareness Month. Most long-time readers know that I’m passionate about promoting overall wellness, sharing my own experiences with anxiety and depression, and advocating for others who are unable or afraid to share their own voice. Last month I attended the annual NAMI Walk with my husband (my resident…
5 Things You Can Do On National Depression Screening Day
Forgive me for coming at you late today. In fact, with all the sorrow and shock going on in the world right now following the tragedy in Las Vegas and just being a little busier than usual, I didn’t intend on posting today. But here I am. If you didn’t already know, this week has…
10 Things to Know About Therapy
I’ve been seeing a therapist—a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in particular—since May. It’s been a year since I began taking an SSRI for anxiety/depression, and I sort of skipped that logical first step of seeking therapy before turning to medication. But…the past is in the past, and starting medication when I did was a necessary…
You Have To Put Your Oxygen Mask On First
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. For the entire month, NAMI supporters and mental health advocates are promoting awareness of mental health conditions and working together to live #stigmafree. Learn more at nami.org. Do you ever feel like a failure? Or a fraud? Or like you’re free-falling through the air, grasping for your loved…
How Taking An Antidepressant Has Changed My Life
Taking an antidepressant – plainly and simply – changed my life. It’s natural to fear the unknown, but if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, medication may be an option for you.
It’s OK To Feel Sad Sometimes…
Toward the end of the summer, I began taking an antidepressant for my Generalized Anxiety Disorder and accompanying depression. The last few months have reminded me that I made a positive decision. I was lucky not to experience any major side effects (just some temporarily increased anxiety and slight insomnia in the beginning), and I’ve…
My Struggle With Anxiety (+ National Depression Screening Day)
This week is National Mental Illness Awareness Week, and today, October 6, is National Depression Screening Day. Chances are, if you don’t suffer from anxiety or depression yourself, then you have family or friends who do, which is why I think it’s incredibly important to talk about our experiences and encourage one another to reach out…
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