Setbacks

I found this piece sitting in my drafts and I’m definitely in a clearer space since it was written. Writing allows me to express myself in a calm, clear way & take back control. My hope is that it will help others too.

Healing isn’t linear & a setback doesn’t mean you’re weak.

I am strangely thankful for my journey and therapy. It’s given me tools for life and an understanding that you and you alone are responsible for how much of an impact each setback has on you or how long it lasts. It’s all about perception. I accept my bad days even when they are really bad and I really don’t like them, but I look forward to enjoying my next good days.. I want to see what happens if I don’t give up!

It is not realistic to assume that once you have learned to control your symptoms that your life will have no anxiety in it at all or no low days. I have found during my own recovery that it can be very up and down. Things will happen, good & bad. It’s one step forward and two back. It’s not black and white, you don’t go from ill to better. It takes time. Healing is messy. You will suffer setbacks but you do have a choice how bad the setback needs to get or how you choose to deal with it.

Strategies for dealing with setbacks in depression
•• Get active. Start with small goals and keep the goals regular but achievable.
•• Be mindful of simple pleasures.
•• Notice any achievements, no matter how small.
•• Try not to compare what you are currently able to do with what you were doing before the setback.
•• Try not to criticise yourself. Challenge your thoughts!
•• Try not to avoid and isolate.

Strategies for dealing with setbacks in anxiety
•• Remind yourself of coping strategies that help you to feel calmer and more relaxed.
•• Go back to practising breathing and relaxation techniques.
•• Remind yourself of how to use grounding techniques and practise these.
•• Tackle anxious thoughts with thought-challenging techniques.

I have also, experienced positive results from using crystals as part of my self care. I have several dotted about our home but am particularly drawn to rose quartz at present. It’s loving energy gives me a sense of peace and reminds me that no matter what, things are going to get better. I have also noticed significant improvement in sleep/ feeling more rested and relaxed since keeping it under my pillow at night. *Note: crystal healing is never meant to be substituted for seeking medical attention. If you are in need of medical assistance please contact your gp or the crisis team.

I am no expert warrior. Sometimes I will fail and feel sorry for myself. At the time of writing this, I am fighting with every last bit of my strength. Knocked down 7 get up 8.. I will rise. I will always rise. Don’t you doubt that even for a second.