As I write this post, I’ve cried maybe seven times in the past three days. It’s been a bad week and while I’m doing my best to put one foot in front of another, I’ve been in a funk. Admitting I’m not at my best at the moment is hard, but even harder would be to pretend everything is fine and ignore my mind and body. So, in quite the opposite fashion, I’m sharing my struggles in hopes of starting a bigger conversation around mental health.
The suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain were a bleak reminder that our country (and the world) has a long way to go in terms of understanding mental health. Following their deaths, I posted on my Instagram stories that I see a therapist. In the past, I’ve struggled with depression and still deal with anxiety. It’s something I don’t talk much about but that has nothing to do with shame. I haven’t mentioned it because it’s so normalized to me. Talking with my therapist is like going to the gym or grocery store, it’s something I need to do to stay healthy. It’s not a glamorous or fun thing to talk about, but I have no problem sharing.
People were so kind when I spoke about it that I felt guilty not speaking about it sooner. Not that anyone should feel like they have to share their mental health status, but by not saying anything, I’m contributing to the issue this country has. People are afraid to admit they are struggling with mental health for fear of being judged. However, if we looked at mental health the way we do any illness, we’d all be better off for it. Telling those with the flu to “just feel better” won’t cure their sickness, in the same way, those struggling with depression or other issues simply can’t “just cheer up.” If we can change the conversation and our thoughts about mental health, perhaps people would be more willing to talk about it.
I started seeing my counselor when I was 24. I was struggling with pretty much every aspect of my life and I needed a third party to help me work through things. As a psychology major, I had few qualms about seeking help but making the initial appointment was absolutely hard. Of course, it was (and still is) stigmatized and I was the only person I knew seeing a therapist, so there was a bit of shame initially. Once I settled in and started talking, it was clear I found the perfect person to help me process my thoughts and emotions.
When I shared my struggles on Instagram, people were quick to respond with their own battles. Depression can be lonely and isolating. I remember putting up walls and pushing my friends and family away. Not because I wanted to, but because I didn’t have the energy to interact with them. Depression is a vicious cycle that feeds off itself. It’s scary and crushing and nobody should have to face it alone.
So, if you need to talk to someone, I’m here of course, but there are also trained health professionals to help. I found my therapist through Psychology Today, the most incredible resource. Just click “find a therapist” and you can search based on criteria like location, specialties, and insurance. It might take a few tries but finding that one person who is able to listen and help is priceless.
To sum this incredibly unorganized post up, hi, I’m Christine and I’m working on myself. For the most part, I am a happy person, but I struggle at times at that’s okay. I’m having a bad week but that happens to me sometimes. I’m not a health professional but I’d be happy to listen to your struggles too.
If you or anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call the suicide prevention hotline 1-800-273-8255 chat with a professional online, or text 741741.
THE RESCUES:
Stiles – Did you know there are hippos in rescue? It’s true. This chunk of love is just looking for a family to enjoy his zest for life, sleep, and snuggles. He’s got the cutest smile and you won’t stop laughing at his facial expressions. He’s about eight-years-old but he’s game to play with you, don’t you worry! For Stiles full bio and profile, click here.
Blondie – Okay no for real, I want this dog. She’s a mystery mutt full of sweetness and already has the sitting thing down. She loves the camera and is pretty much up for anything. She loves humans and canines and sheds very little. Blondie is basically a unicorn so if you like all that, adopt her before I do. Seriously. Here’s her profile and application, get her.
THE STYLE:
This Gentle Pit tee is a go-to and every time I wear it, I’m asked where it’s from. As I mentioned previously, a portion of the proceeds this month will go to Chicago rescues! So, think of it as a donation and free tee. The Gentle pit has so many cute designs to chose from. When you’re checking out, you can select the dogs you want to support. So, you know, go save the animals. Similar pants and shoes linked below.
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xoxo,
Christine
All photos: Margaret Rajic
You have been so amazing with helping me in just the short time we’ve known each other on so many levels. It’s so ironic that you struggle with these things, because I always tell my husband I feel that I have a happy disposition…and his reply was “no, Christine from Rescue in Style does “. I don’t know exactly what your going through, but I have been depressed in the passed and deal with a lot of anxiety. The struggle is real and it sucks. My friend just took a 3 month leave from work to get some intensive care. I don’t think people realize how prevalent mental health issues can be. It clearly doesn’t matter how much money, friends, etc. you have, sometimes it’s just there. I’ve also cried a lot this week because I am truly overwhelmed and scared I will fail, I am so hard on myself. Keep doing what your doing, you’ve created an amazing platform to help animals and now people too. I am proud to call you a friend and everyone should know there is help and support in so many places.
Make that eight times of crying this week. Although, this is a happy cry. Your words are incredibly kind and I’m so glad the crazy dog world has brought us together. I talk about you all the time and the awesome things you are doing for our furry friends! You’re an inspiration to anyone following their passions. Keep it up, you will not fail, I believe in what you’re doing! xoxo
Thanks for sharing your story! I’ve seen more and more people speaking out lately and it’s encouraging to see the conversation grow. Also, Stiles and Blondie are too cute! Blondie looks like she may be a little stoned hahah I’m loving that tee, I think I’ll have to get one!
Thanks as always for reading! I definitely think we are on the up and up regarding mental health! Still plenty of work to do but it seems to be a bit more accepted. I giggled at that photo of Blondie so much, I had to share it. Get a tee!!!