I thought I’d participate in Thinking Out Loud Thursday this week with a bit of a confession. I’ve taken a few days off of blogging because I needed a little bit of a break. Trying to grow a blog and create great content every day is really hard, and it’s been even harder for me because I’ve been struggling with a lot of anxiety lately. Not necessarily anxiety about my blog, but a general sense of unease and nervousness that’s been permeating everything lately.
I think it’s hard for people without anxiety problems to understand what it’s like to live with bad anxiety. You can’t just decide not to worry about things–if it were that easy, anxiety disorders wouldn’t exist. Sometimes your brain just won’t let you turn the worry off. Exercise can help, meditation and mindfulness can help, but sometimes anxiety can be stronger than your coping mechanisms.
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So, I tried stepping back from some of the things that I was stressing about a lot, like my blog. My husband and I took a short trip to Milwaukee last weekend to celebrate our anniversary, and we had a lot of fun. I’ve taken time to watch some TV shows that I enjoy and do a little at-home yoga. I even took myself shopping and got a manicure. Making sure to take care of myself has helped a lot, although the anxiety definitely creeps back in.
I suppose the main reason why I’m writing this post is to let you know that if you’re reading this and you’re struggling with anxiety, you’re not alone. We go through hard times, and we get through them. I know I’ll get through this, I just need a little time and I need to make sure that I continue to take care of myself.
I, too, have anxiety (clinical depression and anxiety) and I totally respect you doing what you need to do to take care of yourself. This is something you do for fun, not punishment. Don’t hurt yourself in order to make “ends meet” as it were. Take care!
Sorry to hear about your anxiety. I know it can be a cycle that’s hard to get out of. Does running help at all? Anyway, hope you get rid of it soon. Your blog rocks!
I want to give you a big hug through the computer screen! Thank you for this transparent post and for sharing your heart with us. I have been going thru some issues behind the scenes also so just know you are not alone and I hope the rest of this week that you are filled with a little bit more peace and joy. Love you, friend!
There’s no worse feeling than not knowing where you are or where you belong in this World. Every once in a while, I’ll feel lost…not alone, but just not myself. I have to tell myself that everything will be okay, because in the end, one way or the other, it will be okay. Eventually I believe myself, pick myself up, and move on.
It happens. And I’ll give you a hug if you need one. 🙂
Anxiety is a real pain and it definitely gets in the way of the things we really want to do. I find that this comic (http://i.imgur.com/ZnL9lBs.jpg?1) describes it really well (at least the way I experience it). Good for you for realizing where you were, stepping back and taking care of yourself.
Thank you for sharing Beth, it shows how strong you are to be able to talk about this subject. I am glad you were able to take some time for yourself. I myself have struggled with anxiety my entire life too. Reading this reminded me that I am not the only one, and we can all help each other. I know there are many things outside of my control, usually what I am stressing over or anxious about, but I need to remind myself that that is life and everything will work it self out how it should.
“Everything happens for a reason.”
Big hug to you! Blogging can wait and we’re here when for you.
Sorry to hear you’re having a hard time! Keep taking good care of yourself, and take all the time you need. Get as many manicures and take as many trips (Holland is pretty nice this time of the year 😉 as you need. And you’re brave and strong for sharing this on your blog, thank you!
I’m sorry to hear you are having a tough time. I have anxiety too, so I completely understand. Keep doing your best and know that it’ll pass.
Anxiety is what brought me to running in the first place. It really helps.
Thanks for sharing Beth. I love your honesty. I always enjoy reading your posts and have been missing them, but blogging should be fun and not stressful. I hope your time off and relaxation time with your husband was good! Nice to have you back.
I love you Beth! Thank you for posting this.. Good reminder to practice good self-care. Missing you lots!