I'm Proud Of You

Taking first, second, third, forth, whatever number step you're on can still be difficult. That doesn't make me any less proud of each step taken.

Recently, I have had quite a few friends come to me with updates on their mental health journeys. Some are just entering counseling for the first time; some continuing to go back even though it's hard; some deciding to take medication, and so on. Everyone is at a different stage in their journey to create a better quality of life that feels more whole. More whole in the sense that they are striving to have not only a healthy body but a healthy mind and spirit as well. That is something I think all of us should strive towards really.

As I listen to or read their words, I see healing. As I listen to or read my responses, I see it in myself as well. Of course, we are all going to have off or even bad days, but something that I have been trying to find peace with is that a bad moment or even a bad day or week does not negate all the hard work you have put into your healing journey. All you can do is- when you're ready- get back up and continue on that journey.

I wanted to write about this today because after the year we've had, as we approach a very bleak new year, as you get more frustrated with missing things and people, I need you to hear me when I say this: none of that negates your growth. That and: I am so incredibly proud of you. I am even proud of me.

We talk about mental health a lot on here lately and that's because it is something I see a lot of people struggling with this year. If that doesn't apply to you, I am extremely grateful for that, but there are still lessons you can gleam from these topics. There are likely people in your life who ARE struggling, and YOU can help. You don't have to have all the answers, you don't even have to have a single answer. Simply being there and showing love and support is more than enough.

For those of you who are struggling- you have come so far. I know it's hard but there is something wonderful waiting for you- wholeness. Maybe you need a push today? Schedule that therapy appointment. Call a friend and confess how you've been feeling. Make that doctors appointment to start your medication again. Pick up that hobby that you used to love and try to break the cycle. Anything. If those seem like too much, know it doesn't have to be that big. Brush your teeth. Make yourself a meal. Put on a show that will make you laugh. Little things are good too. Because little things will help support you to get to the bigger ones.

No matter what you end up doing, know that I'm proud of you. I'm proud of you, I believe in you, and I am walking my journey with you, and so are so many others. You're not alone and you are just getting started, so keep going.

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Thank you for joining me for The Mess. It has been quite a messy year hasn't it? And it's not going to necessarily let up any time soon. But in the words of Shigure Sohma, just start with what's at your feet, that's all you can do. Start with what's in front of you right now and work your way out of the mess. Life is messy but we can make something wonderful out of it, I just know it. I hope you have a week of new beginnings. I will be back with some Nerdom on Wednesday. In the meantime, stay safe, keep going, and stay messy friends.