Mental Wellness Support Group

[fireproof78]

I'm feeling very worn down by everything happening in the US and the world right now.

Agreed.

I read an interesting idea that resonated with me. We humans simply are not meant to try to carry huge burdens of other people. We used to be primarily in our local town and city, focused on those communities. But now, with the Advent of the Internet, we can be in a constant state of fear. There's no relief.

I encourage all to start trying to take a break from the news, and from the world news. Despite what news would have us think, we are going to survive. I heard the same talking points since 2001, and have heard about the end of the world for even longer, i.e a new ice age, the ozone layer, global warming, and climate change. Yet, life proceeds on, and we can effect change in our community.

 

[Set Harth]

The good news is that the ice age should help with all the global warming.

 

[Gryffindorian]

Except we have a different ICE Age in the U.S.

 

[Aragorn]

So my parents are the oldest in their generation of the family, meaning assuming lifespans are all equal (which we know they're not) they'll be the first to go. Well it looks like that time is coming sooner rather than later. We actually thought it would be one of them but now it looks like it's going to be the other one. Not sure how to process it. Also wondering about a eulogy because I have nothing to say. There wasn't really much of a relationship with either parent. See them all the time but it's pretty superficial, an emotional distance.

 

[fireproof78]

The stress right now is overwhelming as I consider a possible new job.

 

[Birb-of-Prey]

I'm feeling very worn down by everything happening in the US and the world right now.

Likewise. But also pissed. We all need to be more pissed. Don't listen to the other franchise; hatred can in fact be channeled for good.

On my end, I've stopped drinking and started taking daily walks.

 

[Gryffindorian]

My dearest friend Maggie passed early last week after a short battle with lung cancer. I was shocked and devastated when I heard the sad news from her son. Shocked, because I wasn't expecting her to be gone so soon.

Just before the 4th of July holiday, I got a call from her while she was staying at a rehab facility. She sounded really well, like her old usual self. It seemed she was responding well to immunotherapy. She told me she couldn't wait to get back home while her sons made some improvements around her house. We chatted for a little bit, which would he the last time I ever heard her voice. I texted a couple of times afterwards, although she might not have had the time or energy to check her phone, but I did want her to know that I was thinking of her.

When I spoke to her son, I was stunned to learn that Maggie had suffered a stroke the week before, and she was taken to the hospital. While her speech was limited, she was still sharp and could communicate with her family. In addition to heart complications, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.

I'd never had a friend like her before, and I doubt I will again. She and I remained friends for almost 27 years, and we were like family to each other.

 

[Commander Troi]

I'm so sorry for your loss. *hugs*

 

[Avro Arrow]

My deepest sympathies, Gryffindorian.

 

[Gryffindorian]

Hope everyone's new year is off to a good start. I realize this time of year, some people may be experiencing post-holiday blues, while others are just glad the holidays are over. It's usually the former for me.

I've been under a lot of stress and anxiety lately. Two Sundays ago, I fell from my bed while putting away Christmas decorations. I hurt my shoulder pretty bad, resulting in a fractured humerus. While I'm starting to get better, I've been in a lot of pain and discomfort. I haven't slept very well. Everything from brushing my teeth to taking a shower has been a challenge. I've been off work all this time, a week during the holidays, and now because of the injury.

I found out from the orthopedist that I needed surgery for my shoulder, which is scheduled for Monday of next week. Although this will be an outpatient procedure, it all just feels so overwhelming to me. I've never had an injury that required a surgery before. I've been reading up on medical information in anticipation of the next few weeks of recovery.

I'm just grateful I have family who will be helping out before and after the surgery, especially a nurse sister who's been so helpful in providing advice and medical insights. My friends and colleagues are there to provide moral support as well.