Holiday Awakening: Coping with Holidays and Mental Illness

Year Three of Recovery: Finding Presence in the Rollercoaster

Recovery is not a straight path—it’s a winding road filled with dips, climbs, and unexpected turns. As I drove home recently, I felt the familiar ache of time lost.

The holidays are approaching, and with them comes the reminder of how much preparation and joy happens in the weeks before. For those of us living with mental
illness, those moments can feel stolen, leaving us grieving what we missed.
That realization hit me hard. Sadness crept in, and I found myself tempted to sink into self-pity. But then another truth surfaced: I am more present this year than
I have been in many years. That presence is my reassurance, even as medical changes test my patience and strength.

Mental illness is real. It can distort time, drain energy, and make even the brightest seasons feel heavy. But it does not define our worth. Recovery is a journey of
rediscovery—learning to honor progress, however small, and to celebrate presence even when perfection feels out of reach.

I share this because I know I’m not alone. Many of us are riding the same rollercoaster, adjusting to dips and climbs, and searching for hope in the midst of >struggle.

If you are walking through your own season of recovery, please remember: you are not alone, and your story matters.
📞 If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available. Hope is real.

This year, I choose to honor the progress, the presence, and the resilience that keeps me moving forward. And I invite you to do the same—because even in the hardest
seasons, there is light worth holding onto. Emotional healing 🌿✨.


#MentalHealth #RecoveryJourney #SuicidePrevention #HealingAndHope #Resilience #HolidayWellness #FaithAndHealing #YouAreNotAlone #988Lifeline #CommunitySupport

Remembering Carter Vanderbilt Cooper: A Call for Compassion and Awareness

 As of June 30, 2025, at 8 AM, I became aware of this story after watching a 30-minute documentary. Note, it is almost his going-home day.

Remembering Carter Vanderbilt Cooper: A Call for Compassion and Awareness

In July 1988, Carter Vanderbilt Cooper—writer, son, brother, and beloved soul—died by suicide at just 23 years old. His death left a profound mark on his family, including his mother, artist and designer Gloria Vanderbilt, and his younger brother, journalist Anderson Cooper. More than three decades later, the pain of that loss still echoes, not only in their lives but in the hearts of many who have faced similar grief.

Carter was described as gentle, sensitive, and deeply thoughtful. In the days leading up to his death, he had been struggling silently, even while attending therapy. His mother later wrote that she believed side effects from an asthma medication may have contributed to his mental state. Anderson Cooper has spoken candidly about the enduring questions that followed: Why? Could we have done something? Did he know how much we loved him?

There are no easy answers. However, there is one thing we must address: mental health. We must create spaces where vulnerability is not met with shame, where seeking help is not a last resort, and where no one feels they have to carry their pain alone.

Gloria Vanderbilt once said, “Some people who knew Carter will start to talk about him and then say, ‘Oh, I’m sorry.’ And I say, ‘No, I love to talk about him. More, more, more.” That’s how we keep memory alive. That’s how we turn sorrow into purpose.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that help is available. You are not alone. Your story matters. Your life matters.

#InMemoryOfCarterCooper

#BreakTheSilence

#HealingTogether

#SpeakTheirName

#MentalHealthAwareness

📞 If You’re in Crisis, You Are Not Alone

• Call or Text 988 – The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 across the U.S. for anyone experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or a mental health crisis. It’s free, confidential, and staffed by trained counselors. 

• Alabama-Specific Support

  • Crisis Center (Central AL): (205) 323-7777

  • Youth Talk Line: (205) 328-5465

  • Senior Talk Line: (205) 328-8255

  • Crisis Services of North AL: 1-800-691-8426

• For LGBTQ+ Youth

  • The Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386

  • TrevorText: Text “START” to 678-678

  • TrevorChat: Available at 

If someone is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 

The Emotional Toll of Being Dismissed

 

Finding out you have a chronic illness can be overwhelming. There’s the uncertainty, the pain, and the adjustments you have to make to your daily life. But perhaps one of the most complex parts is when your own family doesn’t believe you, ignores your struggles, or treats you like a hypochondriac. Instead of offering support, they brush off your symptoms or tell you it’s "not that bad."

This type of response can be deeply hurtful. Chronic illness isn't just about dealing with symptoms—it’s about navigating relationships, advocating for yourself, and working through emotional wounds caused by skepticism and neglect.

A Personal Experience: Feeling Invisible in My Own Pain

I remember the day I finally got a diagnosis. After months—no, years—of unexplained pain, fatigue, and frustration, I had an answer. I thought my family would be relieved, supportive, even encouraging. Instead, I was met with disbelief.

“Do you like telling people you're chronically sick?” one relative said with a dismissive snerk. “Silence with a change of subject about themself,” another chimed in.

They didn’t ask how I was feeling. They didn’t offer help. They didn’t even acknowledge the weight of what I was going through. And the worst part? I started doubting myself. I wondered if maybe I was making it up, despite the doctors confirming what I already knew deep down. I found myself withdrawing—talking less about my symptoms, pretending to be fine, trying not to be "too much" for the people around me.

The loneliness of that experience was almost as bad as the illness itself.

💫💫💫

How Lack of Support Can Lead to Emotional Damage

When family members don’t acknowledge the seriousness of your condition:

• It breeds isolation – You may start to feel alone in your experience, questioning whether your pain is valid.

• It affects mental health – Emotional distress, anxiety, and depression can be heightened by feeling unheard.

• It fosters self-doubt – When people close to you dismiss your symptoms, it can lead to second-guessing yourself, making advocacy even more challenging.

• It damages trust – The lack of concern from loved ones can strain relationships, making it difficult to rely on them in other aspects of life.

💫💫💫

Navigating This Reality & Finding Support

While it’s painful when family doesn’t show up for you in the way you need, here are some strategies to cope:

• Seek community elsewhere – Online groups and local support networks for individuals with chronic illnesses can provide validation and understanding.

• Educate when possible – Sometimes, lack of support stems from misunderstanding. Sharing resources or personal stories may help shift perspectives.

• Set boundaries – Protect your energy. If conversations with unsupportive family members become toxic, it’s okay to limit interactions.

• Advocate for yourself – Your experience is valid, even if others don’t acknowledge it. Prioritize self-care and don’t feel guilty about standing up for your needs.

 #SilentStruggles #MentalHealthMatters #SupportNotDismissal #FamilyShouldListen #EmotionalPainIsReal #NotAFaker #HealthIsNotDrama #FindYourPeople #YouAreNotAlone #ChronicIllnessCommunity #WeSeeYou #ChronicIllness #InvisibleIllness #PainIsReal #SpoonieLife #DisabilityAwareness

💫💫💫Closing Thoughts💫💫💫

If you’ve experienced family dismissing your illness, know that your pain is real and you deserve support. While it’s heartbreaking when those closest to you don’t recognize your struggles, there are people out there who will listen, believe, and stand beside you. Keep seeking the connections that lift you up.

Supporting Mental Health in Your Community: Small Actions, Big Impact

Mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being, yet many people struggle in silence. As a community, we can foster a supportive and understanding environment that encourages healing, connection, and strength. Here are some impactful ways to help improve mental health where you live:

1. Foster Open Conversations  

Breaking the stigma around mental health starts with talking about it. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, creating support groups, or advocating for mental health awareness, open dialogue makes a difference.

 2. Promote Local Resources  

Many communities have counselors, crisis helplines, and wellness programs available, but awareness is key. Share these resources on social media, community boards, or through local events to ensure people know where to turn for help.

3. Organize Community Events  

Hosting mental health workshops, mindfulness classes, or support circles provides opportunities for people to connect and heal. Activities like yoga, meditation, and creative expression sessions can be beneficial.

4. Encourage Acts of Kindness  

Small gestures—like writing uplifting messages on community boards or simply being present for someone—can bring comfort. Sometimes, knowing someone cares is all a person needs to feel supported.

5. Support Mental Health Policies  

Advocating for mental health services in schools, workplaces, and public spaces strengthens the foundation of care in your area. Whether it’s through volunteering, fundraising, or petitioning local government, every effort counts.

 6. Take Care of Yourself  

Helping others begins with taking care of your own mental well-being. Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and seek support when needed. When you’re healthy, you can uplift others more effectively.

*** Building a mentally healthy community is a collective effort. By embracing understanding, empathy, and action, we can create spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and heard. Let’s make a difference—together.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

 

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Why It Matters

Every May, we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma, starting conversations, and encouraging support for mental well-being. But why do we have it, and why is it so important?

The History and Purpose

Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized in the United States since 1949. It was established by Mental Health America to promote understanding of mental health issues and advocate for those who struggle with them. Over the decades, this movement has grown, reminding us that mental health is just as vital as physical health.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

Mental health challenges affect millions of people, yet stigma and misunderstanding often prevent open discussions. Observing this month gives us an opportunity to:

• Encourage conversations – Talking about mental health helps break down stereotypes and fosters a supportive community.

• Educate and inform – Awareness leads to better understanding, whether it’s about anxiety, depression, or other conditions.

• Promote self-care – Mental well-being should be a priority, and this month reminds us to take care of ourselves and others.

• Support those struggling – Many people battle mental health issues in silence. Awareness month encourages reaching out and offering help.

How You Can Participate

Whether you share resources, check in on a friend, or prioritize your own mental wellness, every effort counts. Small actions—like learning more, practicing kindness, or simply listening—help make the world a safer and more compassionate place for everyone.

This May, let’s stand together for mental health awareness. Let’s make sure no one feels alone in their struggles and that seeking help is never viewed as weakness, but as strength.

Quote of the day for the brain, Share with your circle.

 “It’s okay to not be okay; it’s not okay to stay that way.”

    

                     YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Quote of The Day FOR YOUR BRAIN SHARE WITH LOVED ONES!

 "You are not your mental illness."

                      YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!

Find Your Calm in Just 3 Minutes: The Transformative Benefits of Micro-Meditation

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 Find Your Calm in Just 3 Minutes: The Transformative Benefits of Micro-Meditation

Life moves fast. Between work deadlines, social commitments, and endless to-do lists, finding time to pause often feels impossible. But what if I told you that just three minutes of meditation a day could bring significant benefits to your mind and body?

Yes, it’s true—micro-meditation is a powerful practice, and it’s perfect for anyone with a packed schedule. Let’s dive into how this small commitment can make a big difference.

1. Instant Stress Relief

Three minutes is all it takes to tap into your parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s natural “rest and digest” mode. By focusing on your breath, you can reduce stress hormones like cortisol and feel a wave of calm wash over you. Perfect for a quick mental reset during a hectic day.

2. Improved Focus and Clarity

Short meditation sessions help clear the mental fog. By dedicating a few moments to mindfulness, you train your brain to stay present, sharpen your focus, and improve your overall productivity. Think of it as a quick recharge for your mental battery.

3. Enhanced Emotional Resilience

Life throws curveballs, but mindfulness builds resilience. With regular practice—even just a few minutes a day—you become better equipped to handle challenges with grace, staying grounded amidst chaos.

4. Better Sleep Quality

Struggling to fall asleep? A brief meditation before bed can calm your mind and prepare your body for restful sleep. By quieting your thoughts, you can drift off more easily and enjoy rejuvenating slumber.

How to Start Your 3-Minute Practice

• Find a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths.

• Focus on Your Breath: Pay attention to each inhale and exhale. Let thoughts come and go without judgment.

• Set a Timer: Three minutes is all you need. You can even try guided meditation apps for added support.

My Personal Experience

I’ve personally found immense value in dedicating just three minutes a day to mindfulness. It’s a simple yet profound way to center myself, calm my thoughts, and create moments of stillness in a busy world. This practice has truly been transformative, and I encourage you to give it a try.

In today’s fast-paced world, meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting cross-legged for hours on a mountaintop. With just three minutes a day, you can unlock a wealth of benefits and nurture your mind, body, and soul. So, why not give it a shot? Your future self will thank you.