Mental Health Habits

I have struggled with my mental health since I was fourteen. I try to keep a hold of it and not let it overspill but sometimes, it’s just hard. I love myself and I love my life, it wasn’t always like that. I have grown so much from that little girl who found herself wailing in the middle of the nigh just for her mama to find her, unable to speak a word besides “I’m so fucked up, I’m so fucked up.”

I could not understand what I was going through. As far as I knew, everyone was normal but me. It took lots of work, therapy, and medication to get me to where I am now, and I’m grateful for all the work I put in. I am happier than I’ve ever been, I have a loving boyfriend who cares about me, I have a wonderful family and friend group, what more could you ask for?

I still don’t feel normal though. I have vision problems caused by my mental health. I don’t know exactly what it is but the best way I describe it is that it feels like I am originally from a 2D world, just coming in contact with a 3D world. If that makes any sense. Ive learned to deal with this, I believe it begins when I start to dissociate, which is often. The best thing to do when that happens is to just sit and breathe, in and out. Once I have a good breathing pattern that feels natural again, I get up and continue what I was doing. Now this isn’t the only thing that I have to do to keep me from feeling insane. I have found it is so much easier speaking about how youre feeling rather than holding it all in and hoping it goes away. Even if someone doesn’t understand what you’re going through, at least they can listen. That’s all that matters to me anyway.

Having someone listen to you can be a great therapeutic way to deal with your issues. Even if they are not an actual therapist. Having a friend or family member by your side through all of this nonsense is so comforting.

Anyways, another helpful habit is to focus on things you love, something that will distract you from the current situation your mind is in. I spend my time reading, witting, or drawing (and painting when I get the chance). I’d like to know your healthy mental health habits, you can email me at: acorarogers27@gmail.com