Daily Challenges
My own experience includes a long term heart health condition which began a few years ago and is still with me today. Although my story may not be the same as yours, I believe that the connection between anxiety and our overall wellbeing, both emotionally and physically, is the same.
The best way I can describe it, from my perspective, is like being on one of those giant ferris wheels that just go round and round constantly and only stop long enough to let someone off and a new person on. Only for anyone who suffers with their mental health it's not a person getting on and off the wheel, it's simply a new worry that takes up that space. The anxious thoughts that hinder our progress merely transform into a different form of anxiety once we believe we have settled the original disconcerting feelings.
I am certain that you, like me, often observe your surroundings and wonder why you cannot be like others who seem content. Why should I not experience happiness as they do? Alternatively, you may find yourself grappling with the sentiment of 'why me?' Why must I be the individual facing these challenges? It feels unfair. However, how can we truly know what someone else's life entails? Numerous symptoms of anxiety are not visible and do not necessarily present any external indicators of distress; so how can we be certain that they are not experiencing suffering as well?
I understand there are studies indicating that individuals experiencing anxiety can also exhibit heightened empathy and compassion for others. They can have greater sensitivity to the needs of those around them and even demonstrate a stronger willingness to assist. I believe these are admirable traits to possess. Therefore, rather than asking "why me," we could consider that if another person is facing difficulties, perhaps we could say “how can I help”. I think, for me, that is why I decided to publish my journal in the form of a blog. It's just me saying hello, this is me and I share your pain.
So as you know I like to try and offer a “break in the clouds” moment if I can and this one is about a recent appointment I had at my local hospital. As I have mentioned previously I have ongoing heart health issues and have been on quite a journey with it over the last few years. To this end I have built up quite a rapport with the cardiology team who are pretty amazing. But that didn't mean I was any less apprehensive about the upcoming meeting. Now the cardiologist had a trainee doctor in with her. I was asked as soon as I entered if I minded the young doctor being present which I was more than happy with. My chuckle moment came when the cardiologist turned to the young doctor and said “oh that's great, this patient has had everything. You can learn a lot from her”. So instead of being anxious about what was coming I was able to imagine winning the gold medal in heart health conditions and treatments. It certainly took the edge off my stress levels☺️.
Thanks for reading. Take care and a virtual hug to you all.
