Mind, body and spirit make up who we are ~ neglect one and life becomes a bit haywire. It is easy to ignore one’s health in my profession. Our focus is on the success of our students and we do not place ourselves at the head of the class. Rather we disregard the ‘check engine’ signals sent to us by the body or the mind. Sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, and lack of physical exertion will soon land you in difficulty. Add mental health issues to the mix and there can be potential for disaster.
Depression has always been a close companion of mine but what happens when you ignore your friends? Usually they try to get your attention if the friendship is to continue. I thought that I had managed that part of my life rather well. Long time readers of this blog know that I worked for an extremely difficult boss for the last 6.5 years. In order to get through the day, I would try to pretend that his behavior toward me didn’t bother me. Oh how wrong I was! My depression started to really take hold of me causing me to descend into the depths of hell. Suicidal thoughts loomed on the horizon as I didn’t know how else to cope. I shut down emotionally and physically which caused weight gain, sleep deprivation and God knows what else.
I am on the road to recovery with my depression. Admitting that I needed help was a big step as I wasn’t allowed to show weakness growing up. The depression is being treated and I am also working on the physical fitness aspect as well. Writing is no longer a chore for me. I will heed the ‘check engine’ signals from now on.
Thank you, WTS, for urging me to get help; I owe you my life.
~ba
2 comments:
How brave you are to admit your need for help, BA! What an inspiration you are to others who are struggling. May the healing continue!
I'll cut to the honest here.
Been down a road such as this myself recently, so I can completely understand where you are coming from.
The main thing to remember is that you are a strong, decent and very caring person.
You beat the shit out of cancer.
You stood tall for what you believe in with your profession against those who sought to tear you down.
You seek to help provide a brighter future for children, many of whom come from difficult situations themselves.
Just remember, you are never alone. Hell, you myself and Wonko could probably have one hell of a book to write if we ever dared. Heh.
I'm proud of you for having the courage to do what needs to be doing and I'll definitely be pulling for ya!
Just always remember that we've got your back. :)
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