Between March, 2019 and today, we’ve seen multiple school shootings, murder/ suicides, road rage incidents and various other violent crimes. It seems that since the pandemic, crime has increased. Mask and social distancing mandates, necessary or not, have been put in place to stop the spread of Covid 19, however, we have also seen an increase in mental health issues. When facing challenging stressors such as job loss, relationship issues, etc. during a public health crisis, it’s not surprising that crime has increased. When we are already dealing with anxiety and stress, the contributed tensions from this pandemic have more than likely tipped the scale. Isolation and loneliness only serve to increase stress, anxiety and depression. Knowing that Covid has transformed the way many of us socialize, have you begun to look at family celebrations and holidays differently? Are you more prone to staying home rather than celebrate with family? Has Covid made you more sensitive to the harsh realities of what this world is becoming? Are you MORE THANKFUL or MENTALLY TAXED this Thanksgiving?
For me, I was very anxious and depressed for the past few weeks. My supporters continually encourage me; therefore, I encourage you. Whatever you do today, know that YOU AWOKE ON PURPOSE. For that, BE THANKFUL. Each day is a struggle, but just live each day ONE DAY AT A TIME. Remember to LIVE WITHOUT SHAME. Mental illness IS AN ILLNESS. The only difference is that IT’S not visible. There is no reason to hide, AND do not let if define you. Allow yourself to be fully loved, try to love someone else, BE HONEST about who you are, FULLY LOVE YOURSELF AND YOUR IMPERFECTIONS and understand that mental illness also affects your loved ones.
So, as I end this to let you prepare for family time, I pray that we all take advantage of the relaxed Covid guidelines and enjoy this Thanksgiving as much as possible. No matter what is trying to pull you into the darkness, go into the light. YOU ARE BLESSED. Be Thankful TODAY, and we will tackle tomorrow!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dying to be Perfect 