When the Going Gets Tough!

Although I have a condition called Spychosis, I don't normally experience much anxiety or depression. This is just the way I am. Spychosis is its own little special mental health condition, and when you are not having an episode, which can last for a few weeks or so, then things are normally quite normal. Unfortunately, in the past year, I am pretty sure I've been experiencing side effects from my medication, and it's led to anxiety and physical sensations of pain in the chest and stomach area. This has been tough going, and if you have experienced something like this, the going gets tough! In times like this, I employ a spiritual practice of sitting with the discomfort. Sometimes you might be telling me 'that's not possible,' and I quite agree. I'm not going to tell you to 'have a positive attitude' or 'have grace' because sometimes that just doesn't cut it. Sometimes the challenge is, well, challenging, and you think you might not make it, and I'm here to say this is normal. Anyone who has experienced spotless mental health, put in your or my position, would struggle to maintain a 'positive outlook,' and this is okay. Don't let people who have not been in your exact position regurgitate the stereotypical statements about mental health unless they are specifically useful to you. You will find your way with the assistance of those who can hold a non-judgmental standpoint and treat you with the same respect that they would anyone else. When the going gets tough, allow it to be as much as you dare. Be authentically yourself and realize you are not alone.