If I could describe my mental health throughout my life, I would say that although I have achieved milestones in my life, I am generally insecure about myself, my choices, and my situations. On occasions, those insecurities have driven me to overreact to events that many people would just let slide. It would get to the point that it would go to extremes, resulting in excessive arguing, long periods of crying and depressive episodes, most of which I felt worthless.

It was one of my friends who suggested to seek for help. At that time, summer was ending and I had to return to work. And although I love what I do, I was anxious, angry, and apathetic. I felt quite reluctant to follow through. Regardless, I searched for a psychologist and had my initial appointment. After a few visits, I was referred to a psychiatrist which prescribed medication.

Throughout the last year, I have learned a lot about how to manage my condition and stress. I still have much to learn about myself. I’ve learned to clear my space, to jog (which I have to go back to), to take a mental health day to clear my thoughts (which I have to improve), and to take situations one day at a time. Starting a blog is another one of these accomplishments. I love to write my thoughts, but with all of the stress and daily struggles that come with them, I stopped journaling a long time ago (I’m glad I’m back to writing).

Am I in better condition than a year ago? Well, like all treatments, its a learning process. I have good days, and bad days. There are days which I am focused and accomplish what I plan, and there are days which I am drained. There are days in which everything bothers me, and others in which I let things that don’t pertain me go. I have learned to keep my circle small, and be cautious on who I let in.

I still have trouble distinguishing a joke from an insult, since I tend to take everything in as a serious matter. I have trouble managing anger issues, with situations where I don’t have control. I get frustrated when I forget to check my children’s notebooks, or when my car unexpectedly breaks down and magnify the unfortunate matter to the point that I blame myself. But the fact of the matter is that these situations happen much less than before.

So, if you are a mom that feels overwhelmed with daily routines and life itself, I totally understand and feel reassured that you are not alone. Talk to your health professional for about what you are feeling, and have them make referrals towards a mental health professional. There are also free videos about mental health on YouTube, where your different emotional issues are explained so that you can better comprehend what you are feeling. I am a personal fan of Kati Morton, which is a licensed therapist in California, USA. But, please don’t use videos to substitute medical advice.

Remember mommy friend, there is light at the end of the tunnel. If you feel overwhelmed, get help. You are loved, appreciated and beautiful.

Many blessings!