The struggles of mental health is something that we have been getting better at throughout history. From the studies on the topic to experiences within ourselves or those in our lives, there have been mistakes being made whether it be in identifying the struggle or how to manage the struggle. There is not a one size fits all method to manage mental health struggles.
Woods n Water believes in holistic modalities which offer a wide variety of options to cater to what works for the individual without side effects, misdosing or high costs. What it does take from each individual is effort, time, patience and hope.
Effort – not expecting someone or something to be able to “heal” you. You have to put in the effort. Attempt different modalities and give them time before deciding that it wasn’t for you.
Time – not everything is going to feel good especially in the beginning of trying it. There has yet to be an instant acting method to make mental health struggles manageable. Our bodies, our minds, our health need time to adjust and adapt.
Patience – realizing that even though you have struggled for what seems like eternity, it may take several trial and error attempts to find that modality that will work for you. Be patient with each as you try them, but be patient and go to the next attempt.
Hope – NEVER give up! That is not an option. Admiral William McRaven once gave a commencement speech and in it gave great advice – “make the bed”. Each day we are offered the opportunity to be better than we were yesterday. Start it on a positive note by accomplishing a simple task of making the bed. Get up, use the bathroom, brush your teeth and make the bed. It gave your mind something to focus on, it provided a small (but important) sense of accomplishment, it started your day on a positive note and regardless of how the rest of your day went, you will conclude it on a positive note. A note of accomplishment, comfort, and a reminder that tomorrow is yet another opportunity to be better.
” I’m brOKen” is a fairly recent spin on words to promote awareness of mental health and the stigma that gets in the way of many. It has had a mostly positive impact, but it is good to point out that there is not a “fix”. Woods n Water does not view individuals with mental health struggles as broken nor that one can be fixed. Our focus is to assist you with your journey to find the modality/modalities that help you manage your struggles.
Woods n Water challenges you to adopt small productive and proactive tasks to implement to your every day routine. The first two are make your bed and accomplish at least (3) Buddy Check-ins. Call, text, visit 3 individuals you know each day. A “good morning”, a “hello”, a “how are things your way”, etc., A very easy and small act of kindness that WILL have a positive impact. By adding this to your routine, you will provide an opportunity to better someone else’s day as well as yours.
*side note: be sure to follow-up the Buddy Check-ins!!! don’t just send a text or make a call leaving a voice mail and getting no response. Follow up! Reach out again.
If you or someone you care about feels overwhelmed, please consider contacting 988. The 988 crisis line offers the option to call, text or online chat