I know there is a trend in American culture not to talk about mental illness, as if it is some horrid wicked thing a person indulges in. (Which is nonsense, because it is simply a mental imbalance one is born with in most cases, not an action of the person that causes the imbalance.) Besides dealing with my physical issues, I have dealt with chronic depression for years now. Most days are okay, some are rough, I have taken medication for it, and learned coping techniques. Im not ashamed of it, it is just something I was born with. I also have anxiety issues. And an anxiety issue hit today while in the store. Too many people, an unfamiliar store layout, too loud, somebody bumped into me and bam...an attack hit. Elevated heart rate, the feeling of being trapped, panicked feelings. Thankfully, in front of the rice selection, I was able to just stop, start praying, breathe deep, slow breathes and be comforted in the knowledge that Charles was right there, saw what was happening, and was ready to help if I needed it. The prayer calmed me, the breathing helped me to de-escalate the problem, and my husband was there to surround me with the feeling of security and love. Im still feeling a little shaken, even now at home, but this will pass. Thankfully, these dont happen often. Why am I sharing this? Because we dont talk about it in our culture. And I want my friends to know that even a devout Christian, happily married, fairly well educated and content person can deal with issues. Mental health issues can happen to anyone. Period. Me. You. Whomever. There is nothing to be ashamed of. If you need help, get it. Talk to your doctor. Find coping techniques. (Im having a favorite calming tea right now, thats a coping technique for me. So was the prayer and breathing earlier. We all find our own...but make sure theyre healthy, not like coping by binge drinking for instance.) If you need a friend to talk to, someone who wont judge you, Im here. So is Charles. (Hes a good listener.) And prayer, personally speaking, is a great lifeline for me. Dont let yourself feel alone in this battle. Youre not. :)
Posted on: Fri, 25 Jul 2014 22:51:40 +0000
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