Keep Living, Be healthy, Be Grateful!

I have had to battle depression before and I have been successful. Feelings of sadness, disappointment and discouragement are normal and it's healthy to acknowledge them. Yesterday I shared I have been coping with a low mood for a week or so. The important thing for me to do now to get out of my rut, to dig myself out this hole and find the sunlight. I don't want to get stuck.

I know a few practical strategies to battle depression. First of all accept it's a battle. I have to fight against all natural urges to hide, withdrawal, shut down. Next, keep living. When a person suffers from depression they can lose motivation and struggle to enjoy things they use to enjoy. I have to keep doing all the things that usually make me happy because it keeps my brain moving in that direction. Thirdly, I have to take care of my health because that will in turn keep up my mental health. When depression sets in the desire to eat, sleep, shower, socialize can quickly dissipate. But when these things go, the downward spiral can really take a tole. The body plays a huge role in our mood. Our mood is affected by sleep and hormonal balance. Balance is what brain chemistry is all about. I need to maintain balance.

Lastly, the hardest, most challenging strategy to apply when the world looks bleak; is to be grateful. I need to count my blessings. When people say it's all in the state of mind, it's because it is true. But you can't just will it, it's hard work.

So...let's do this.

The obvious...I have two wonderful children that are healthy, content and reflect their fathers looks, mannerisms and personality every day. I have a beautiful home that is so accommodating for my family I will never have to move if I don't want to. I live in a community that is close to one of the most beautiful places on earth. The Canadian rocky mountains is considered to be one of the most beautiful international destinations and I live 1/2 hour away. I live in one of the best countries in the world. I have a wonderful family that is capable of supporting me and loving me through this time. I have a family that has always valued togetherness. We aren't a perfect family, but we truly love each other and always keep trying to make our relationships work. We persevere because we know family is one the most valuable things in life  a person can experience.

I have all my limbs, all my senses. I can read and write. I can analyze and evaluate. I can learn something new. I can play guitar and piano...I can sing. I can run, do taekwondo, snowboard and ski. I can drive. I can afford a holiday. I can afford nice clothing. I can afford to take care of my children and myself.

Wow, I have so much to be grateful for and I just got started.

I am smiling. I feel joy.

I will probably have to read this a few more times over the next weeks and months as I battle ongoing heavy intense emotions.

I just have to remember 3 things

Keep living
Be healthy
Be grateful

I can't wait to see all my friends and family this weekend. What an opportunity. I am so grateful to have so many people who are able to share and celebrate in Gord's life. He really was a gift to all of us. I can' t wait to snowboard in powder and remember Gord's joy, Gord's passion.