Care Team: Mental Health
Throughout my own journey, I've come to realize the immense value of resilience and a positive mindset in navigating the ups and downs. One of the most empowering decisions I've made was to hire a psychologist, even though my insurance didn't cover it. This step not only allowed me to vent and process my emotions but also opened doors to learning new skills for self-care, developing healthy habits, and finding purpose while fostering gratitude. Did I mention it was a place to vent and feel sorry for myself when necessary? Ah, I guess I did.
Being told there is nothing you can do by an ‘expert’ was a shock I needed to get my mind around.
From the very first Zoom session, I felt a sense of relief. Having a trained professional to talk to, someone who truly listened without judgment, was like a breath of fresh air. I have mostly held in my own emotions, but this day I cried and sniffled my way through the 50 minutes. I put a box of Kleenex out now when I talk to her. Through these sessions, I found a safe space to vent my frustrations, fears, and uncertainties. This process of externalizing my thoughts and emotions allowed me to gain a clearer perspective on my challenges and paved the way for a gradual transformation of my mindset. It also gave me a very physical sense of relief - like my worries and griefs were physical, and speaking them and having them heard got them out of my body.
What surprised me the most was the range of skills and techniques my psychologist introduced me to. From mindfulness exercises to cognitive reframing, I began to develop a toolkit of strategies that can help me manage stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns. These tools weren't just Band-Aids; they were life skills that empowered me to take control of my mental well-being.
As I delved deeper into my sessions, I realized that self-care wasn't just a trendy buzzword; it was a fundamental aspect of maintaining mental and emotional balance. My psychologist guided me in crafting a personalized self-care routine that included activities I genuinely enjoyed, from painting and journaling to spending time in nature. These intentional acts of self-kindness gradually became non-negotiable parts of my daily life.
I discovered that healthy habits, both physical and mental, were closely interconnected. A more balanced diet and adequate quality sleep began to complement my psychological strategies, fostering a holistic sense of well-being. I was amazed at how these seemingly small adjustments could have such a significant impact on my overall outlook on life.
One of the most important shifts in my thinking was the cultivation of gratitude. Through conversations with my psychologist, I began to recognize the positive aspects of my life, even amidst the challenges. Gratitude acted as a powerful antidote to negativity, allowing me to reframe my perspective and find a positive attitude even in the darkest of times. My daughter taught me a new way of journaling called bullet journaling and it is extremely helpful to me - I have pages set aside just for listing the things I am grateful for.
My decision to hire a psychologist has proven to be a turning point in my journey. Through this experience, I've not only developed resilience and a positive mindset but also gained invaluable skills for self-care and healthy living. Venting, learning, and growing with a professional's guidance has allowed me to embrace challenges with a newfound strength. By cultivating gratitude and finding purpose, I've unlocked a more fulfilling and meaningful life where I'm equipped to face whatever comes my way with resilience and optimism. Remember, any investment in your mental well-being is an investment in your overall quality of life.
I still have “Oh Crap, this is hard” days and get a little depressed, but I have learned techniques that help me bounce back more quickly.
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
This blog post is based on personal experiences and is not meant to provide medical advice.
Always consult your healthcare professional for personalized guidance on your health journey.
