“When you help someone, you help everyone.” -Marvel’s Spider-man
The holidays are a time for family and friends. Full of gift giving, sharing memories and looking forward to what a new year brings.
It can also be very difficult time for someone dealing with a mental health issue. So many suffer in silence afraid of the consequences of revealing their struggle.
In the interest of full disclosure … and practicing what I preach …
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety in 2014. It was successfully managed with medication and therapy. As a result of hard work and a good plan I have been medication free since 2016.
That doesn’t mean that the condition is gone and that I no longer suffer the effects. It just means that I can manage them without the need for medication and ongoing therapy.
These holidays were particularly difficult for me. I am unemployed for the first time in 20 years. If you have been following along you know that a “career crisis” was the impetus for this blog.
In November my employer laid me off due to cost cutting measures. I have chosen to take it as a blessing. Now I can move forward without having the decision to leave rest on my shoulders.
While outwardly I was telling people this was a “blessing” and “great news”, I was secretly dealing with all of same problems that plagued me in 2014. I had to put the brakes on and fast.
I’ve since been honest with those around me. Yes this will turn out to be a blessing in the long run… A chance to reboot myself and my self image. For now though I’m dealing with a few things. With help and support I will mange them and use that energy to drive me forward.
If you are suffering now, in silence, please get help. It’s not easy I know. You must talk to those around you. Seek out the help you need to manage this. If your employer offers help programs I encourage you to at least start there.
If all else fails speak to your family doctor. If medication is recommended don’t be afraid of it. Be honest about your fears with your doctor and work on a plan to get you off of the medication once things are back on track.
I can’t promise that you will get better. I can’t promise that your life won’t change. I can promise that if you don’t seek help your life will change. It will change in ways that will NOT be beneficial to you and your friends and family.
If you know someone who is suffering… reach out to them. Offer any assistance you can. Don’t try to “fix” them. Just listen. Try to guide them to help they need. You may just save their life.
NoShade's 