Mental Health Self-Care

It's Okay to Not be Okay

October 20, 2018

A short update on living and thriving with anxiety.

As some of you may know, I have been taking a break from the shop since early July to focus on self-care. One day I was okay, and the next, I wasn't. And as much as I wanted to, I couldn't find my way back for weeks. My anxiety manifested itself in a terrifying fear of dying, along with physical symptoms that sent me to doctor after doctor. I had no appetite, no desire to do anything, really, and I was in pain all day for weeks. I had a rough couple of months, but now that I'm on the other side, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for all the help, support, patience and love that was sent my way.

Making it back home was truly a team effort. My little sister spent almost every day of her Summer vacation helping me and taking care of my kids. My sister-in-law dropped everything, drove 5 hours, and looked after us for a whole week. My best friend, without hesitation, met me at the doctor's office and stayed with me while I cried. My wonderful hubby talked me down, and eased my pain, day after day. My parents, in-laws, sisters, cousins, and friends truly stepped up, and I couldn't have done it without them.

I found peace with meditation and mindful breathing, self-love with yoga, and happiness with reading. And as I share my story, I feel both sadness and relief that so many of you have your own stories to tell. That so many of you could relate. It feels so lonely when you're in the throes of anxiety and depression, but we aren't alone. And you, friends, all have me now... to talk to, to trade tips with, to laugh and cry with. It's okay to not be okay.