Lost, Found, Missing ; Living

I’ve overcome some difficult obstacles. When I recovered, I felt like a stronger version of myself. That strength lasted for a short while.

Sometimes, my mind tells me to drive through the guardrails, jump off the parking garage or drown. I pictured myself doing those things, but not wanting to make it a reality.

Support groups on social media showed me that a person can be burdened with self-destructive thoughts and not have the slightest interest in committing those acts. That was a relief. There are others who have intrusive thoughts. Also, my counselor told me he would take action if he felt I was suicidal. He said I’m not.

Now, I try to use those interruptive images as reminders to be safe and defensive.

It’s a strange feeling. My mind has been overflowing, but my soul has been running on empty. I was still sharing positive posts. I just wasn’t emitting or harvesting positive energy of my own.

I have wonderful people in my life and exponential reasons to be grateful.

When you feel off and have to push negativity and deception out of your mind, what do you do to bring yourself back and clear it? Does your support system become a beacon and guide you?

If you decide to join mental health support groups online, I recommend setting a limit on the number of posts you read or respond to on a weekly and monthly basis. The content can be very sad.

This brings me to another tip. Read the rules of the support groups.

An administrator may require trigger warnings for self-harm, recent loss, domestic and sexual abuse, and other strong content. This allows the reader to skip a post or read it with caution.

Online support group posts can be an added stressor, but the group members can be helpful.

I wish you the best.


Disclaimer: This blog is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of a medical or mental health professional. The reader is advised to regularly consult with a physician in matters relating to his/her health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require medical attention.