You Will Make It Through

It is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you’re in the middle of a crisis. Learning how to cope and give myself grace in those moments is a constant work in progress for me.

I have some awesome accomplishments that I would like to share! I passed my state boards exam, became licensed, and got the job I really wanted. This year I have tried to feel better about celebrating the big and little life changes, but it has been difficult. I feel like I am always stressed, and even when I have great days, all it takes is one tough moment to make my mood shift. Even now, I feel a bit of the sadness creeping in. Taking a deep breath is the first step I take. I won’t always be able to avoid spiraling. I can try to practice self compassion when I feel it coming on.

In my job, I have the privilege of working with clients who struggle with their mental health, just like me. I tend to not bring up my personal difficulties in the workplace because I try to focus on helping my clients, and I honestly don’t feel like I am at the point where I can handle being vulnerable in a space where I am supposed to keep things running smoothly. I did share part of my story with one client though. I told them about how I also struggle with being alone and worry about making friends, and that I also find it harder to cope when it is late in the day. They expressed gratefulness that I shared my story, and they said “I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels that way.”

When I start to feel low, I think about all the other people who experience depression and anxiety and that they have also made it through tough moments. I think about how I have survived all the difficult moments in my life so far. I try to practice the skills that help me cope with my tough feelings. One of the things that helps me keep trying is the knowledge that I have made it this far, and I will continue over and over to make it through hard times.

What helps you keeping going through tough days? What are some things you are proud of? How do you practice self-compassion and celebrate big and small wins?