A Gentle Reminder: Be Kind to Yourself and Others
Lately, it feels like a lot of us are struggling mentally. We’re in the thick of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and the start of a new year can bring added pressure as we adjust after the holidays. The back-to-back celebrations of the past few months can leave us emotionally drained and financially stressed. On top of that, the political climate has created even more anxiety and uncertainty for many.
This year has also brought its own share of traumatic experiences, from incidents in New Orleans to devastating plane crashes, each one adding weight to an already heavy time. These events have left many feeling shaken and anxious, and it’s understandable that a lot of people are struggling. And that’s okay. It’s okay to feel heavy. It’s okay to feel uncertain. We’ve been hearing about traumatic events in the news, and it’s impacting our collective mental health.
But while it’s important to acknowledge our feelings, it’s equally important to be mindful of how we respond to them. If we allow emotions to control our reactions, we risk becoming defensive and overly protective, relying on defense mechanisms that don’t always serve us. Instead, we need to focus on making decisions that prioritize our well-being, even in tough times.
During moments like this, it’s okay to step back. Unplug from the news and social media if it’s too much. Give yourself permission to rest and reset. Find activities that nourish you such as working out, reading , join a club or organization, spend time with loved ones, or connect with people who bring you peace. Protect your peace in whatever way works best for you.
Give Yourself Permission to Feel
There’s so much pressure to always be “on,” to push through, and to act like everything is fine even when it’s not. But let’s be real; some days are heavy. Some moments feel overwhelming. And pretending that everything is okay doesn’t make the weight any lighter. Acknowledging your struggles is not a sign of weakness; it’s a step toward healing.
It’s okay to feel the weight of everything happening around you. It’s okay to acknowledge that you need a moment to pause and process. Healing begins when we allow ourselves to feel and then take the necessary steps to take care of ourselves, whether that means seeking help, setting boundaries, or simply giving ourselves grace.
Be Mindful of Others
As we move through this season, I want to remind everyone to be mindful of how we treat one another. We truly don’t know what battles someone else is fighting. That coworker who seemed distant? They might be dealing with personal struggles. The person who snapped at you in traffic? They could be overwhelmed with stress.
How people treat us is often a reflection of what’s happening within them and not a measure of our worth. But the same goes for how we treat others. Our responses matter. Our words carry weight. We don’t have to take on someone else’s negativity, but we can choose to extend grace instead of reacting harshly.
Grace Doesn’t Excuse Bad Behavior
Now, let’s be clear mental health struggles are never an excuse to mistreat others. We all have a responsibility to manage our emotions and actions. However, what I am saying is that we can all benefit from a little more patience, a little more understanding, and a little more kindness to both toward ourselves and those around us.
Moving Forward with Compassion
If you’re feeling off, know that you are not alone. Seek support, take care of yourself, and allow space for healing. Whether it’s through therapy, support groups, or talking to a loved one, there is always help available. And if you notice someone else struggling, extend a little extra kindness. You never know how much of a difference that small act can make.
Let’s navigate this season with grace for ourselves and for each other. By being gentle with ourselves and extending compassion to others, we can build a stronger, more supportive community.