Mental Health

[Gryffindorian]

How's everyone doing, healthwise and mentally?

@rhubarbodendron , I was reading my workbook last night and got to find out more about other anxiety disorders like PTSD and panic attacks. There are certain similarities among the different mental health disorders. For example, people with PTSD, specific phobias, and social phobia may get panic attacks too. What's different is that a panic attack disorder doesn't have any apparent trigger while PTSD, social anxiety, and OCD do. The takeaway is that in order for something to be considered an anxiety disorder, it involves not only frequency and intensity of symptoms but also avoidant behaviors, leading to a diminished quality of life. Holiday stress, the lack of sunlight, etc. seem to be getting to me lately, but I still practice mindfulness and centering exercises.

 

[Kemaiku]

How's everyone doing, healthwise and mentally?

So-so, my tooth stopped hurting so I can think straight again. I'm sleeping better but my concentration isn't great and my nervous habits are back. Bit my nails for the first time in months, they're...healing, I think it's being out and about with so many crowds getting close to Xmas. Social anxiety mainly, I hate being in crowds like that.

Made some changes to my hair, clothes etc so the dysmorphia is getting better, still pretty wonky from day to day but I've only started learning how to cope with that one more recently.

 

[Gryffindorian]

Sorry to hear that, @Kemaiku . I certainly hope you feel better. Have you tried meditating for a few minutes? It helps me to be more balanced and grounded. My mindfulness class also promotes self-compassion, compassion for others, forgiveness, and acceptance. Like this morning, the traffic was so slow and heavy as usual; it irritated me even more that the driver in front of me was moving slower than traffic. Then I realized I was being judgmental when I should be more compassionate and calm. I tell you, it takes practice ...

The holiday season is one of my favorite times of the year, but it can be really stressful for a lot people. I think it's mostly because of the demands and expectations we put on ourselves - gotta get the shopping done, gotta wrap the presents, gotta get the big-screen 4K TV, gotta prepare for a dinner party for 30 people, gotta decorate the house, gotta get the 20-ft Christmas tree. All these things are physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially taxing. I always take time off from work during the last week of December to just relax and stay sane.