In this day and age it's hard to come across someone who isn't/hasn't suffered from an mental illness. In America alone, 1 in 5 people will have anxiety, depression, or PTSD at some point in their life. I suffer from all 3, and have been for years. I am in no way perfect, or out of the storm called mental illness, but over the years I have learned somethings that make this battle a little more bearable.
1. Hygiene Is Important
I'm the first one to say that I think taking a shower takes too much time and effort. And who wants to brush their teeth or hair when they didn't want to get out bed in the first place? I've learned over the years to fake it till you make it. Not in the mood for a shower? Water and soap your armpits, your behind, and your special parts. Hair too much to even deal with? Throw some water on it and comb it through with your fingers, makes it seem like you showered and hair doesn't look like you got in a fight with hair dryer and lost.
2. Food Is Life
We are taught from the time we are born until we die that eating healthy is key to good life, but who wants to cook a 5 star meal when they are having an internal battle? Need something healthy but don't want cook? Check out Hy-Vee or Walmart's premade sections. You can find premade salads and sandwiches, most of which are a healthy balanced meal.
3. It's Okay to Feel
Since I have been living with my mental illnesses for years now, I have learned it's okay for me to feel what I feel. You are entitled to feel, no matter if you turn into the hulk or cry at the drop of a fly. Never let anyone tell you what you are feeling is wrong or unreasonable, because to you those feelings are as real as the blood that flows through your veins.
4. Alone Time Is Good But So Are Humans (Most of the Time)
Being alone is where I thrive; I love the sense of just being free, especially when I'm having a rough mental day. But isolation can be lonely and bring unfriendly thoughts. Now I'm not saying throw a party and invite all the people you know, because if you're anything like me you will flake at the last minute. Start small, invite a friend out for coffee and spend 30 minutes catching up, or invite someone to go with you to run some errands. You get some friend time and also get to check somethings off your to do list. A 10 minute conversation could help see a whole new outlook.
5. Love Yourself!
Self love is the most important on this list because the other seem to fall in line when you love yourself. Stop with all the "cannots," and start with "I will" and "I can." Accept the things you can't change about yourself and make a plan to change the things you dislike. You are the only one who can love you best. You deserve to be loved, so why not do it yourself?
About the Creator
Kegy S
I'm here for a good time, and hopefully a long time
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