Hang in there!
The title of this post is as much for me as it is for anyone else out there who needs it. I know for most that the holiday season is typically one full of joy and fun, but for some of us it's also one fraught with stress, anxiety, and depression. If you are in the latter group (like me!) then my advice is to hang in there. I don't mean for this to seem trite, but rather to let you know that I get it and that you're not alone.
I've struggled with depression for more than a decade and this past fall a bout of acute depression has crept up making both my WA and regular job work hard to face. You add the holiday stuff on top of that and it's overwhelming. I'm usually someone who can "power through" things but am trying really hard not to give into my normal mentality so I can take care of myself.
With all of this said, here are my self-care goals for the remaining five (!) weeks of 2023:
- Get enough sleep (typically 7 hours a night for me)
- Spend some time with family and friends (but not too much)
- Be okay with enough being enough
- Don't feel obligated to work every evening of the work week
What about you all? Anything you think I could add to this list or on your own list?
All the best,
Samantha
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Just do not go above the limits that you have set for yourself just to make someone else happy. I understand this completely. (depression)
Wise words, Samantha! I always try to catch up with my sleep so that it doesn't creep up on me later. :)
Myra
A very important message and thank you for sharing. I would add in learning to set boundaries, but what you've mentioned is helpful. Depression is brutal. I hope you start feeling better.
Susan
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Thank you for sharing with us so openly about your battles Samantha. I think you could add a few affirming characteristics that I can glean from your post to this list;
- you are strong, committed and passionate about those around you and your work
- you are perfect and loved unconditionally, regardless of how you may feel emotionally, and truly valued as a person
- be ok with you! Your best, your unique contribution to this world expresses your uniqueness, your integrity, your honesty and is a blessing to those around you
And lastly,
- reach out and share yourself with others, as they may need to listen to you, just as much as you need to listen to them :)
Best wishes to you!