I have always grappled with my mental health, even when I was too proud to admit it. From childhood, I’ve dealt with an anxiety disorder, and during my teenage years, depression hit me hard in waves. However, the real struggle began when I experienced the tragic loss of my daughter to SIDS, which introduced PTSD into my life and intensified my internal battles.
While I generally manage these conditions well, external pressures can aggravate my symptoms. With the COVID-19 pandemic creating an overwhelming atmosphere, I’m compelled to admit that my mental well-being is currently suffering.
I find myself snapping at my children over trivial matters — things that any parent would expect — only to apologize moments later once I’ve calmed down. My frustration spills over into arguments with my husband, family, and even strangers online, fueled by heightened sensitivity. I often cry at night, disturbed by nightmares, trapped within the confines of my home without any real outlet, just like countless others.
We are in an unprecedented era, feeling as if we’re actors in a bizarre, dystopian narrative. Each of us is grappling with our own challenges, often feeling inadequate or overwhelmed. In a world rife with illness and loss, it’s all too easy to minimize our own feelings, especially when we see others facing dire circumstances.
However, our individual pain is significant, even if it’s not visible or quantifiable. Just because we may be fortunate enough to stay physically healthy doesn’t mean we aren’t affected by the upheaval caused by this pandemic. The world has dramatically shifted, and it’s normal to feel heavy emotions in response to that change.
Since the onset of the pandemic, millions of Americans have filed for unemployment, a staggering record. Just last week, the number of suicides in Tennessee surpassed the deaths caused by the coronavirus. Frontline workers are exposed to the virus daily, worrying about bringing it home to loved ones. Families are isolated, some dealing with illness and fear, while parents are left juggling multiple roles without the usual support.
During this horrendous time marked by the COVID-19 crisis, it’s crucial to check in on one another’s mental well-being. If not now, then when? No one is immune to mental health struggles, regardless of their perceived stability or past experiences. Mental illnesses can affect anyone, especially during such trying times.
Our society has witnessed an overwhelming amount of sickness and death, something we’ve only read about in history books. We cannot expect individuals to bounce back to normalcy after experiencing such trauma. It’s okay not to be okay; in fact, it’s vital that we acknowledge this.
Now is the time to bridge the gap between mental illness and mental wellness. We need to foster open conversations with our loved ones about mental health. There’s a good chance someone you care about is feeling lost and could benefit from your outreach. Reach out, send a text, or drop a card in the mail. Offer reassurance that brighter days lie ahead and remind them that this situation is not permanent.
Let’s ensure our loved ones know they don’t have to face these challenges alone. For more insights, consider visiting resources like IVF Babble for helpful information on pregnancy and home insemination, or check out Intracervical Insemination for expert advice. You can also explore this related blog post for further reading.
In summary, mental health check-ins are crucial as we navigate these challenging times. Let’s prioritize these conversations and support one another through this collective experience.