I have struggled with anxiety and depression my entire life. It’s complicated. Partly due to childhood trauma and abuse from first spouse, which I’ve done my best to receive counseling. I take antidepressants and something for anxiety and OCD. Also, I’ve endured numerous head injuries, some during childhood, some from domestic violence, 2 car accidents and then I was forced to retire 15 years early due to a fall at home that left me disabled. I don’t look disabled, so people don’t treat me with respect or understand when I duck out of activities from brain exhaustion. I have almost all the symptoms of CTE, which is what football players get but can’t be diagnosed until an autopsy is performed. So there you are. I was working and enjoying a full life and in one day, my entire life changed. Fortunately, I’m high-functioning physically. I have an “invisible disability “ that makes socializing almost impossible and I’m very out going. I do have a marvelous husband who’s very supportive. Not every one is as blessed.
Because of my faith, I’ve learned to accept suffering as a fact of life. Every person on earth experiences suffering. I should not be exempt simply because I am a devout Catholic. In fact, I try my best to use my worst days when I’m bed- bound due to indescribable migraines (like nothing I’ve experienced in my life!) , I use this time to pray for others who are also suffering in this world.
I also try to give as much as I can to help the poor by contributing to food banks, etc. It is good to remind ourselves there are others suffering, too.
God loves us all. Call on Him and reach out to help others, even if it’s a prayer for others suffering from depression or homelessness, and other hardships. This life is so brief. Heaven is eternal happiness! I will definitely be praying for everyone in this group. Don’t get me wrong, I have days/ weeks where I get on crying spells and don’t want to do anything but sleep. That is human nature. Be gentle with yourself and remember how merciful God is and how much He loves you.
Hugs