I’ve seen a lot of people lately struggling with their mental health. I know many people have lost their jobs or can’t work. Others have kids to handle and a some don’t have a partner to help them. There’s many who have underlying health conditions, or those that just live with someone more vulnerable. Each and every one of us has been affected in someway, whether it’s big or small. And each of us, sooner or later, are going to start noticing a shift in our mental health. I think one comforting thing is that we’re all going through this together, so in some way we all understand what you’re going through. You are not alone in this.
I’m still working (my full time radio job is essential) so our routine hasn’t changed too much but I’ve still noticed a shift in my mood. As a photographer in the Okanagan, we can't take photos of other people. My creativity has felt trapped and I’m much more restless and emotional. I was also getting flashbacks to the week of the Fort McMurray wildfire with all the unknowns and info changing every hour. I can only imagine what it’s like for those who have experienced a much bigger change over the last month.
With all that's going on my work decided to give us a 4 day extra long weekend because we could all use it right now. And of course we can't even go up to the cabin like we normally would. It was a weird weekend. I think I've been sinking into a bit of a depression. I've been on medication for it since high school, but it's a different depression than what I experienced back then. Even though I'm still working I've been feeling trapped, especially when it comes to my creativity & photography. I spent most of the weekend curled up on a couch binge watching Virgin River & then finally started on Grey's Anatomy.
I didn't have motivation to do much, and I still don't. I don't really want to be at work, but I don't want to be stuck at home the whole time either. I want to go take landscape photos, but would rather be curled up on a couch in my blankets. I did go out and get some photos of flowers, but I don't want to work on them. I'm always one who needs to be doing something --thank you ADHD-- but I don't want to do anything.
It's okay, to not be okay. I think that is the one comfort, knowing so many other people are feeling lots of emotions, or just feeling grey. PLEASE reach out if you feel yourself sinking. If you need to talk or vent to someone, or just need silly puppy videos/photos to give you a smile, I am here. I’ve said it before but I’m very open about my history of mental health struggles and will always make myself available to you if you want or need support. No matter how big or small the situation, treat it seriously and take care of yourself.