SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. I almost wrote 'Season Affective Depression' Does that show where my mind is at today? Well, not today, but certainly earlier this week. As the days of winter draw in and there's less sunlight many people are seriously affected by this; their mood drops.
I certainly like lots of light in my space, but it's not this that 'does me in'.Having long term experience of clinical depression has taught me many valuable lessons. One is that I only drop down into a depressive state when first my body is struggling. And I've met many people who say the same. Can't help wondering if those who claim to help people with depression understand this. Perhaps at the time we've been in their office we haven't yet come to this realization.
For those who have, it's valuable news. I keep tabs on what's happening in my body now - not obsessively, just aware that if I find myself wanting to move away from my usual round of activities that's a sign. It's as if I am moving forward and can see a precipice in the distance. So instead of keeping on in that direction I know how to back off. For me, a day or two in bed may even be indicated. I don't want to fall off that precipice, remembering too well when, without choice, I slipped so far that I didn't believe I'd ever feel any better.
It's absolutely wonderful that now I know this isn't true for me any more. When I feel the first slip on the path I remind myself that, even if I back off for a while, after some R & R (rest and relaxation) I will feel brighter again.
If you are one who feels creeping up on you an active 'backing off' from things that usually aren't a bother; if for example you start feeling yourself shrinking away when the phone or doorbell rings, you'll already recognize that as one of the telltale signs.
If on the other hand, you don't know what I'm talking about but have someone close to you - or not so close - who acts this way, do something nice for them. Show them you care. Take some of the weight off their shoulders - offer some help for one of the tasks that is making them feel overwhelmed.
One of the ways in which my multiple illnesses, including of course the long term effects of Stage 3 cancer, are having a helpful effect on my life, is that I have given up trying to work 24/7. So, working when I can get the work; not doing those things I hate; recognizing people who are drawing strength away from me; gives me permission (and understanding from those who know of my health challenges) to take a day or two out when I need that.
For those of you who are still able to work - lucky you - there's still a way to lighten your load. Look for the signs that are specifically yours. When you observe the precipice approaching, make a conscious decision to e.g. put your feet up after dinner; crib another 10 minutes in bed in the morning; ASK someone who loves you to do something they normally expect you to do (perhaps they need a reminder that you are not superman/woman); find a quiet place to rest at lunchtime instead of talking to your workmates / shopping / making that phone call to the company you owe money to.
You've probably never had anyone to give you permission to do this before - and possibly didn't know how even a short break is rejuvenating. Now you do. Go get it.
And if you have, or have had cancer, remember, the world can survive without you pushing yourself for a while - but if you push yourself right into the arms of death, this dear (sometimes painful) world of ours will truly be depleted by your absence. Take your welfare into your own hands. Refuse to push yourself so hard that you write a worse future for those you love. Rest!
Best love
Beryl
I certainly like lots of light in my space, but it's not this that 'does me in'.Having long term experience of clinical depression has taught me many valuable lessons. One is that I only drop down into a depressive state when first my body is struggling. And I've met many people who say the same. Can't help wondering if those who claim to help people with depression understand this. Perhaps at the time we've been in their office we haven't yet come to this realization.
For those who have, it's valuable news. I keep tabs on what's happening in my body now - not obsessively, just aware that if I find myself wanting to move away from my usual round of activities that's a sign. It's as if I am moving forward and can see a precipice in the distance. So instead of keeping on in that direction I know how to back off. For me, a day or two in bed may even be indicated. I don't want to fall off that precipice, remembering too well when, without choice, I slipped so far that I didn't believe I'd ever feel any better.
It's absolutely wonderful that now I know this isn't true for me any more. When I feel the first slip on the path I remind myself that, even if I back off for a while, after some R & R (rest and relaxation) I will feel brighter again.
If you are one who feels creeping up on you an active 'backing off' from things that usually aren't a bother; if for example you start feeling yourself shrinking away when the phone or doorbell rings, you'll already recognize that as one of the telltale signs.
If on the other hand, you don't know what I'm talking about but have someone close to you - or not so close - who acts this way, do something nice for them. Show them you care. Take some of the weight off their shoulders - offer some help for one of the tasks that is making them feel overwhelmed.
One of the ways in which my multiple illnesses, including of course the long term effects of Stage 3 cancer, are having a helpful effect on my life, is that I have given up trying to work 24/7. So, working when I can get the work; not doing those things I hate; recognizing people who are drawing strength away from me; gives me permission (and understanding from those who know of my health challenges) to take a day or two out when I need that.
For those of you who are still able to work - lucky you - there's still a way to lighten your load. Look for the signs that are specifically yours. When you observe the precipice approaching, make a conscious decision to e.g. put your feet up after dinner; crib another 10 minutes in bed in the morning; ASK someone who loves you to do something they normally expect you to do (perhaps they need a reminder that you are not superman/woman); find a quiet place to rest at lunchtime instead of talking to your workmates / shopping / making that phone call to the company you owe money to.
You've probably never had anyone to give you permission to do this before - and possibly didn't know how even a short break is rejuvenating. Now you do. Go get it.
And if you have, or have had cancer, remember, the world can survive without you pushing yourself for a while - but if you push yourself right into the arms of death, this dear (sometimes painful) world of ours will truly be depleted by your absence. Take your welfare into your own hands. Refuse to push yourself so hard that you write a worse future for those you love. Rest!
Best love
Beryl
