Sending good vibes to your DS speakout for a positive experience on his first day
And to my sisters here who need a boost today 🕯
queenrollo it’s incredible to hear how you’ve managed to turn things around and make changes to the pattern of your depression. I think that’s a really big deal and I admire your strength and tenacity. I work in MH, have personal experience of depression and often think that it’s one of the hardest illnesses to deal with. It’s insidious and can end up filling every corner of our lives before we realise. I think this time of year is the worst in many respects- the physical atmosphere, darkness, change of routine meaning that usual coping mechanisms can go awry and as you say, difficult family situations coming into a sharp focus against the background of what could or should be.
Really pleased to hear that your therapy has helped so much. I think good therapy helps ‘re-wire’ our brains- the changes made are permanent IME, so even though things can still be tough, you’re starting from a more resilient point. I’m rambling again, but I think I’m trying to say that I really admire what you’ve done to change things- I know how hard that is.
Good to see you Sokere, hope you’re able to find a few minutes peace amongst it all to get you through. I’m lucky to have plenty of time to myself which nourishes me- although I need to watch that I don’t isolate myself- I can do that without noticing sometimes as my ‘natural default’ is to enjoy my alone time- however, no woman is an island and I need to push myself to reach out before I reach this point. It’s such a balancing act for all of us isn’t it.
I know INFJ’s are probably the most sensitive in many ways in terms of absorbing the emotions of others. I heard what I thought was some good advice about practicing being a ‘conduit rather than a vessel’ for others’ emotions. To feel them and be able to tune in that way whilst recognising that the feelings aren’t our own so we can then let them go. I sometimes do a mental exercise where I ‘sort through’ what I’m feeling and work out what’s mine and what’s not- visualising letting go of what isn’t mine. Just noticing usually helps me.
speakout your coping strategies seem very similar to mine- I’d be the one offering to taxi too to give me a break from the proceedings. I think I’ve learnt over the years to build in a few minutes here and there amongst it all to get me through. It really does help me manage my energy.
Loyaultemelie glad to hear she’s on the mend and hope you can find some peace and calm in the coming days
Blessed be all x