This past week, due to some health changes I made, I temporarily dipped back into mild hypothyroidism / depression…
…and holy fuck. That was so humbling.
Even with a small dip, I was reminded how overwhelming even the smallest tasks are from that state. How utterly heavy, bleak, and oppressive the world seemed. And how strong the impulse was to shut down and just give up.
I truly can’t believe I survived 7 years like that.
To all of you who battle with the darkness of depression and/or chronic health issues…I salute you. You’re an absolute fucking hero.
To weather this storm for days, weeks, even years on end is a kind of hell that many could never even imagine, let alone endure.
To maintain a job, pay rent, get groceries, even drag yourself out of bed everyday…it’s a goddamn miracle.
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but I’m awed by you. Humbled by you. And proud of you.
I know you may not think similarly towards yourself right now, but at the very least, just try to be a little gentler on yourself.
You are NOT weak. Quite the opposite, actually.
You are trudging through hell every second of every day, summoning every bit of willpower to push forward, while surrounded by people who have no idea what you’re going through.
You are one badass motherfucker. And a miracle.
So cut yourself a little slack.
And while you’re at it, please get your thyroid checked (get a full panel test including FT3, FT4, RT3, and TSH). Read The Depression Cure (even if you’re not depressed, it’ll take your mood from a 6 to a 9). And message me if you want some support or just want to talk or vent with someone who gets it. I mean it.
And to those of you who have loved ones struggling with this – stop feeling sorry for them. Stop giving them your sympathy.
Instead, give them your love. Your pride. Your respect. Your awe.
Trust me, they’ve fucking earned it.
Photo by Umberto Shaw.
