One of the posts on here that continually gets views and responses is my dark thoughts (link) post.

I’ve also had 2 individuals reach out and say they were having their down days or periods and asked what do I do when I need to combat those feelings.

I signposted those people to appropriate services for them such as

Samaritans

Same you

Link

Link

And it spurred me to think what do I actually do when I’m abit low?

My darker days tend to go hand in hand with when I’m tired. So my first thing is to mentally say “ok I’m struggling and feeling flat ” letting myself recognise it.

I then try to plan my next few days and focus on a particular day (say a Saturday or day off) especially if I know I won’t be working or at a rehab appointment. I don’t agree to any big plans; for this example let’s say it’s a Saturday

Friday evening I’ll leave work and make a clear mental point while driving home to say that’s done for now and box it off. As a couple me and Rich have wine and tv time on a Friday to wind the week down; we always have, nb: only drink alcohol if you can.

I’ll go to bed, intentionally not set an alarm and just accept I might not see the AM hours on Saturday, I’m going to let my body sleep and rest until it’s done.

I’ll get up on Saturday; shower and intentionally dress myself in clothes that make me feel nice, then more often than not spend time with my parents, sister and her children; there’s nothing like an exposure to children to spread positive energy. I get spoilt by my mum with my favourite foods: fresh bread with cheese or strong cheese spread. Cake, gallons of tea.

Me and Rich might do some clothes browsing or possibly go to the pub

Once home we tend to have a laid back family meal of pizza and grazing bits together.

Come the evening I’ll catch up on tv or YouTube.

In the evening possibly/ probably more wine or beer and just chatting with Rich.

I have an incredible support network, if I put in my group chat with my best friends that I’m feeling low they will always respond and check on me.

Recently I’d been in work and a friend recognised I was struggling and having a low day , without asking he went to the shop bought me a bottle of pop, brought it to my office and hugged me from behind and said “don’t worry you’re doing amazing” the fact they had recognised it without me saying and done nice things was such a nice touch.

I’ll tell my husband if I’m struggling too. We can talk it through. He’ll remind me of the progress I’ve made, talk about how I never expected to make much progress and point out upcoming plans to be excited about.

Sometimes I’ll get some free time in an afternoon after work and use that for some self time. A cup of tea, tv, nice biscuits and I feel better for those small things

Lots of small things can be as good as one or two big ones

There’s been trials and tribulations
You know I’ve had my share
But I’ve climbed the mountain, I’ve crossed the river
And I’m almost there, I’m almost there, I’m almost there🎶almost there – Anika Noni Rose (from princess and the frog)