.................confused about our present health crisis!!!!!!!!
We are bombarded with constant messages swirling around that are contradictory!
I had not even wanted to talk about the virus! Part of it is that I feel so emotional about this present situation. And words cannot describe how I feel when it is viewed day in and day out as a “left/right
issue!” It is so sad for our country! And it is further disconcerting that people that live by themselves, would have an even more difficult time dealing with social isolation/distancing. If your family does not live close by, how are you doing?
How are you doing as far as when this started and up to now? How has it affected you? We already know that we are in a high risk category. One of the main issues is that part of the solution is for us to socially distance/isolate. This very solution to one problem is a bigger problem for those that suffer from chronic pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia….
Statistics show that as much as 80% of people with fibromyalgia/ chronic pain suffer from depression. How could you not?! If you are affected in that way, what types of things are you doing to help yourself?
I know for myself that when I am at home a lot, I can tend to feel depressed. I need: connection with God; normally, I go to a Bible Study with the best teacher in the world! But right now there are all sorts of ways to still stay connected/on line bible studies and etc. I am blessed by my family! I have the sweetest and caring friends that accept me unconditionally with all of my warts!! One of my hobbies is talking on the phone!! Funny Face! We all could not be luckier in this day in age to be able to have the technology/ face time, etc. I am so blessed in that some of the organizations that I have joined since I had to stop working are wonderful! And an added bonus is that I have met the sweetest Christian friends through, for instance a beginner’s water color class. We visit way more than we talk.
I know that I have to have sunshine, if I am feeling down. If you suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, a new study shows that the brain produces serotonin, on sunny days more so than on darker days. In these days, this chemical is essential. In winter months, symptoms can vary from, FOG, difficulty concentrating, low energy, loss of interest, moodiness, and excessive sleeping. In that case, I want to sleep every second of the day with or without sun or clouds, couch potato! The literature explains that in summer months, our appetite can decrease!!!!! Not so bad!! Ha ha But seriously, it is of noticeable concern. Another comfort to me has always been our canine therapy! (even though they drive me crazy at times!, exercise - ugh. My hobbies – I can’t decide which one?! Besides, watercolor, I love arts and crafts, and creating something nice is very encouraging and therapeutic. (although my husband says, “I thought you were going to spend less money when you retired?!”) A sense of accomplishment helps my mood! But there never was a worse procrastinator than I!!! I have fantastic doctors! My rheumatologist is so empathic, caring and thorough. My psychiatrist is fantastic. He has helped me so much, through some bumpy times. Nowadays, most primary care doctors are not going to prescribe psychotropic drugs. And furthermore, I highly recommend seeing a doctor that specializes in these particular issues. Just like we go to a cardiologist if we are having heart problems, why would we not go to a specialist that focuses on emotional and mental health issues. Of course, no matter what, society still views mental health issues as a stigma - a sign of weakness, embarrassment, shame, “you’re one of those crazy people!” I have learned to act proactive about seeing a Psychiatrist, and use it as a humorous part of all of this craziness we have to deal with day in and day out! I must admit the very first time I went to a psychiatrist, I wore a trench coat and sunglasses, and literally never made contact with anyone else in the waiting room! That is the silly truth!! My primary care doctor is very thorough in treating the entire problems in their entirety, and works in conjunction with the other doctors in a holistic approach.
Therapy – When I started suffering from PPD, postpartum depression, my doctor told me that I had to go to counseling. I was not enthused! And my sweet Mother said, “But honey, you can talk to me!” hmmm. I found out really quickly that it was so therapeutic to talk with someone else that was totally objective about the situation. If you have not gone to a therapist, I recommend that you find one, and at least, check it out. You can go by word of mouth by friends, insurance. etc. We have to deal with the whole ball of wax on a daily basis! Looking back, I drug our dismayed family to a lot of therapy over the years! But it sure helped, and brought us closer together.
I’m sure that I am leaving out other suggestions for dealing with these critical issues. I am so sleepy, drugged, and having brain fog this morning. Surprise, imagine that?!! Ha Ha! Forgive me! At least I can blame it on that!!
If you have not done so, please reach out to others! Reach out to your Pastor! If you know someone that is struggling with these issues, please take it seriously. This is such a difficult time, even for people that do not have to deal with all the problems that we encounter!
Be safe!
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