Where’d you go? I miss you so!
Wow – how odd it feels to return to writing. Many of you have sent me messages basically asking if I’m alive. a) thank you .. it’s incredibly moving to know people notice your absence. b) yes, and I’m slowly creeping back into my social media/blogging on the daily. So – why the extended silence?
Winter Blues
Most of you have read my original post on depression and mental illness. If not, you can catch up here. My depression likes to come and go and sometimes rebound with the intensity of Black Friday shoppers trying to score a big screen on a dramatic discount. I’m not sure if the intensity has anything to do with age – from what I’ve encountered in healthcare and what I’ve read, mental illnesses seem to enhance themselves like fine wine. Winter also does a number on my mood. The overcast days, cold weather, and natural inclination to stay cuddled on the couch only feed the hermit in me and in turn worsens my depression. It’s a terrible circle right? I thrive on warmth and sunshine and I HATE winter fashion. I’ve never liked feeling bulky in any sort of way, hence the eating disorder but I feel like it’s so much easier to express yourself in a unique way in spring/summer wardrobes. I get SUPER annoyed browsing through instagram and seeing nothing but sweater/jeans/gucci belt combos. YUCK!
Finding Wellness
When I find myself in these super scary lows, I try to escape the unnecessary things (like social media) and focus on centering myself again. So how do I do that? Hot tea, fires in the fireplace, mani/pedi’s with an occasional massage or facial, and lots of reading! I set a goal to read 100 new books (my crop top below says book club!) this year and it’s so mentally refreshing! I love a variety of literature – from chic reads to historical fiction, mysteries, autobiographies, etc. OH and we can’t forget hot baths with a nice smelling bath bomb – so much yes!
What to Do if the Lows get TOO Low
Guys – I cannot stress enough the importance of getting help. Even though I do see a professional therapist and physician – I still have moments that knock me off my feet. In those moments, you need to have a plan – like ghostbusters.. you know, who ya gonna call? Find your tribe, or your person – the Christina Yang to your Meredith Grey (where my Grey’s fans at?!) Know who you can turn to, even it’s 3am but you can’t escape the scaries. And have a plan B – not the pill – but a backup plan, because life. I’ve been there, done that, and fortunately have had someone come check on me when I took a scalpel to my wrists.
Write These Down – No really.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line:Ā Text 741741 from anywhere in the USA to text with a trained Crisis Counselor!
To Write Love on her Arms: This cause is one of my favorites AND it has a list of local resources for anyone needing help!
Depression and Bipolar Social Alliance: DBSA offers peer support,Ā outreachĀ resources, and a variety of wellness tools to make sure you’re on the right path!
AND IF ALL ELSE FAILS – CALL 911!
The 911 operator will get you the help you need but sending help straight to you. Never ever feel like you’re alone or there is no escape. I can say from experience those feelings seem permanent, but as cheesy as it sounds there is always a new day! Ā Be your own favorite!
Photos by Rebecca @ BeckleyCo
What a tough struggle. I can’t imagine the difficulty. Winter is always a struggle for me as well. I can absolutely relate to books, bath bombs, and taking things slow. Take as many breaks as you need from the craziness of social media!
This post really touched my heart. It’s so true to take care of yourself, especially when it gets really hard. I’ve been there, and can relate. Sending lots of love your way, girl, you’ve got this.
thanks for sharing such a personal blog post <3 i totally understand this feeling though! i have been taking a blogging break too, and just came back to it. I can't wait for this new year of blogging š
Really great post! Also love your cardigan! I love the white because it would be great for transitioning into spring:)
xoxo, Hannah
Definitely a great message here! Winter can be a really tough time for some people, love that you’re spreading positivity!
It is SO important to take care of yourself – I love this and I think it’ll be a great resource for so many!
I’m so sorry. Winter months really can take a toll on me as well….as far as deepening tough emotions. I’m so happy to hear that you understand when to step away from areas of your life that can feed into it and just take a break. SO important!! I feel I need breaks from social media every two weeks!! lol Thank you for sharing your experience. And your smile radiates!! xo
This post is so important for so many people! Thank you for sharing and for all the helpful tips.
xoxo,
Kim
The holidays and the new year are traditionally rough for me, too. I am sorry to hear that you’ve been going through some tough times and I totally respect you for taking the time and space that you need to take care of you!! Keep smiling, lady. xo
I love this look on you!! You look stunning!
I’m glad you’re feeling so much better, I know how depression can be. Just need to focus on the positive as best as you can. Sending you lots of hugs!!
This is an important topic that’s rarely discussed in the blogging world. Thank you for sharing all this information!
Megan | http://www.pipmegan.com
This is a much needed to be talked about topic that isn’t touched on as much as it should be. Kudos to you for bringing it to light.
What a hard struggle to overcome, I personally tend to feel super low myself at times- especially during winter. Just like you, I think a little self-care and love can help tremendously. I also think it’s good to seek professional help before things get too bad. I learned this in a podcast with a licensed therapist, that if you sense that you’re feeling off to go seek help. Thanks for sharing your this, so great to be able to bring light to the situation. Glad that you’re back!
Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. I think breaks are a great way to tap into your personal needs and find what you are struggling with.
-xo, Azanique | http://www.lotsofsass.com
I have seasonal affective disorder so I know what you mean about winter effecting your depression. It’s really tough but thank you for sharing that part of your life with us and taking care of yourself!
Loved this post and really loved that you wrote about something so real and hard for so many people! You look amazing btw!!!
While I know it’s a tough topic to write about, I’m glad you’re being so open and honest about your own struggles and suggestion for others to get help! So happy to see you decided to focus on you for a bit!
So happy to hear you are feeling better, I can imagine it could be quite draining dealing with depression. You are very strong!
-Nicholle
http://www.nichollesophia.com
So happy you’re feeling better, I know how draining depression can be, and I love how you gave resources!
Such a great message in this post! Also I love your outfit so much!
Glad youāre doing better now! Thanks for being so open and honest š
Xx,
Lauren | lifestylesbylauren.com
Amazing post! This was so open and honest! Hopefully it will help others as well.
The winter can be a hard time for many and a lot of people experience seasonal depression during this time of year. I commend you for being so open with your readers about it though. That is very refreshing.