Once, when going through a terribly difficult time, I felt terribly down, and thought I could do with some medical help, so I took myself off to my gp, who is brilliant. I explained to her all that was going on, and how I felt about it, and what the likely outcome of it all was, and how long it would likely take. She said that as I was able to understand so well what was causing my feelings, articulate them, and understand that there was a cause, there would realistically be a duration and that eventually, they would resolve, she felt I was actually doing fine in the circumstances and it was better to keep going as I was, offload to people when I could, get as much rest as I could, and if possible, get breaks and headspace, even if only short periods, and try that for a while. Well and good, she said, if I didn't pull out of it, then we could think again. She was right, I did get through it. It was long, and very hard, and I think in the same circumstances again, I would go back for some help. Take as much care of yourself as you can, Canary. Get as much rest as you can. Get some headspace if you can, even if it's just staring out the window at the garden. You seem to understand exactly what's going on, and you will get through, one way or another. xx
Likewise, I had a very similar response to Lady A's when I went to my GP for help about 6 months ago. I had a short session of CBT-based therapy at my local hospital. They helped me to understand that what I was experiencing was a result of my situation (funny, I really could not see that for myself!). Here are a few things I learned that might help you:
1. Over 70% of our thoughts are negative - self-critical, fearing the worst, etc. Yes, really! Problems occur when these negative thoughts overwhelm us. The trick is to recognise when it is happening, and break the cycle.
2. Here is a technique to help break negative thought patterns. It's called 5-4-3-2-1. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, identify:
- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can hear
- 3 things you can feel or touch
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste.
This will bring you back to the moment, and help to break your mood. It's classic mindfulness, but it does work!
3. If you're a worrier, like me, write out a worry list. Then set aside a time and place just for worrying. Look at your list, then ask yourself what you can realistically do. If you've done all you can, then cross that worry off your list and resolve to worry no more about it!
4. Do something for yourself that you enjoy, or used to enjoy. Even if the feeling enjoyment doesn't come back straight away, persevere with it. It will come back.
5. Last but not least, what everyone says is so true - you must look after yourself. Eat well, sleep well, get some exercise and plenty of rest.
I apologise if this seems patronising or re-hashing of old ideas. Truthfully, I knew most of this before I had the treatment, and I'm sure you do, too. In my case, I needed to be reminded and shown that this advice really did apply to me! As time has gone on, I realise that it has helped me. I hope this helps you in some small way.
Keep posting and take care. DMac xx