Posts
Long time no blog - well, a month, anyway. I always forget how crazy the end of the year can be. November is particularly sneaky since I try to do a lot of writing, but also have to clean up from my usual huge Halloween party, and then suddenly it is time to get ready for Thanksgiving. Then the month is over. And with the MIs, time does not seem to go by at a steady rate, anyway, with some minutes and some weeks feeling like the same length. I'm sure you know what I mean.
Plus, okay, I've been feeling crappy. I always get extra down at this time of year, along with many other people. I've been spending a lot of time over at my favorite mental health forum, Crazy Boards, where, with the holidays on hand, there have been plenty of people posting about how depressed they are. It really twists my heart, since I relate so strongly. I wish I could write a note to everyone who feels depressed right now and say something that would actually help them. (And me.) Something that would actually be uplifting. No words really help when you feel that rotten.
But I am tenacious, and I've decided I'm going to try anyway. I was inspired by this really excellent holiday ornament. I love snowflakes as a symbol, anyway, and this one is made of silver people all connected together. A great image.
So here's the challenge, to myself, and to you if you want to join in. I'm going to pick ten blogs from folks with MI, and I'm going to leave a message in the comments to try to lift their spirits a little. Like a little online holiday card without the expense or generic verse. I can't send holiday cards anyway since the pressure of not missing anyone makes me freak out. In this case I've given myself a small, realistic goal. Just a little something, a gesture.
I have an ulterior motive, too, I'm afraid. I think that writing these little messages might make me feel better. I mean, I read a lot of blogs, and follow the lives of a lot of people online with MI. It has made a huge difference for me, knowing I'm not alone. Having people read my blog and leave comments here has helped to make me feel more validated, and more in touch with others. It's all good. So I think a few messages are in order.
As for the messages, well, already knowing that words barely make in impact on depression - what to write? Well, that I enjoy and get something out of their blog. That I hope they see how far they've come this year. That I hope the New Year brings more healing for them. Hmmm. Not sure, but stuff like that, depending on the person. Righto.
I have a few other ideas for making the Holiday more bearable, but that's for another post. First, I have some messages to write!
Your Hostess With Neuroses
Image credit/info: Our First Tree by Tiger girl, on flikr via Creative Commons, CC 2.0.
15 comments:
Aww, thanks for your nice "Christmas Card" comment on my blog post.
I'm sorry you're feeling down, and I hope sending happy wishes helps!
Unfortunately I think the end of the year and Christmas can get a lot of people down. Having to seem jolly, extra stress, family members that can irritate you, reflecting on the end of the year...
You're right in that it's always nice to get comments on blogs- knowing that people are reading and maybe can relate.
Take care x
This time of year is hard for me too. Hugs to you!!! I hope you feel better soon.
You are so right . . . the holidays aren't the "most wonderful time of the year" for many folks. Your idea for reaching out to other bloggers is such a good one, and such a kind thing to do. You've inspired me! Thank you.
Hmm, I just left a comment but I don't think it went through. Hope it doesn't post twice.
Anyway, I think your idea is great and I am sending positive thoughts and wishes your way. You are not alone!
Holiday anxiety and depression really is a tough thing, isn't it? It's different than the everyday anxiety and depression. It compounds it.
Still, we do our best to work through it and make the most of the holidays. We remember the spirit of the season and we let others know how much we care, just as you have been doing. (Thank you for that!) Through that, we embrace the spirit of the holidays, we feed the spirits of others, and we feed out own spirits.
Wishing you the best and thanking you for being there for me. {{{VIRTUAL HUGS}}}
Thanks for all the comments! I went out and left my ten messages, and really enjoyed it. I'm glad the messages inspired some people and I hope we all have a great, happy, and healing new year!
That's a really cool ornament!
I love your blog! I've never commented before but I check it all the time. You have an amazing way of framing your anxiety disorders that makes me feel more accepting of mine.
Don't be too hard on yourself this holiday season, it's hard for most people! :)
I'm really glad you like the blog! That's a nice warm fuzzy for me. I'm glad it helps! Yeah, I need to learn how to cut myself more slack, and yet, it remains one of the hardest things to do. Hope we all have a good holiday!
Hello,
First thanks for sharing post.
Holiday anxiety and depression really is a tough thing, isn't it? It's different than the everyday anxiety and depression. It compounds it.
Definitely real about mental illness here! Please consider posting a follow-up to your "Depression in December" piece; perhaps something like "Being SAD in Winter Wonderland"? The issue of how to thrive, not just survive, with anxiety disorders during the dark days of what is celebrated as a New Beginning (New Year) by others is a worthy topic, IMHO. Thanks for your help and support in spreading knowledge and concern.
Hello,
Really Excellent post.I'm really glad you like the blog! That's a nice warm fuzzy for me. I'm glad it helps! Yeah, I need to learn how to cut myself more slack, and yet, it remains one of the hardest things to do. Hope we all have a good holiday!
HI Blue Morpho!! Just thot i'd drop by and say 'hello'. I hope you are feeling ok. Hope to hear from you soon :)
Happy New Year.
I know how you feel, I always get a little bit sad during Holidays
Post a Comment