Today is Time To Talk Day 2019. As humans, we have a tendency to say “I’m fine”, when really our brain is shouting “NOT FINE.” It’s so difficult to step up and say that you need help.
I’m in a good spot at the moment, but I’ve definitely been in a bad place with my mental health many times before. One of the things that I have found really helps is self care. That moment of calm to sip a coffee. Actually, one of the things that makes me smile at the moment is that my local to work Starbucks has a really lovely, super friendly barista, which is exactly what I need at 6am. My brain struggles massively with tiredness, so I need that smile on an early shift and it surprises me how much a genuine smile and a “how are you?” helps.
So, that’s what I’d love anyone reading to do today. Take five minutes and do something for you. Whatever makes you happy. Whether that’s a coffee, painting your nails, or writing in your diary. Self care doesn’t have to be extravagant. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
Also, next time you ask someone “how are you?” make sure to really listen to their answer. Start a conversation. Because by talking about mental ill health, we bring it out of the shadows and into the light.
So, get talking! How is everyone today?
That’s the life!
We’ve had a few days off together, but it’s back to normal life tomorrow. Shift work is so difficult for both Aiden and I, not only balancing childcare but the emotional side of it too. Eden has plenty of days with each of us over the month, but we only actually have two or three days off a month together.
It’s difficult when it’s shift worker allowances that allow us to live the way we do, but it’s also shift work that leaves us tired, grumpy and passing like ships in the night.
Back to the childminder for Eden tomorrow, but we’ve had a lovey day today with her nanny and grandad, and a lovely meal at our local Beefeater.
It’s not about how much time you have together. It’s about how you spend the time that you do have.