So I’m not sure how to jump into this post, but here goes. As some of you know, 2013 has been a really challenging year for me. However, in true Whoorl fashion, I always expected to write about my struggles after the fact. You know, the way I like to do it. Solutions to problems! Positive outlooks! Well, it’s taking a lot longer than I expected.
On the bright side, I made it 38 years before dealing with a 1-2-3 punch of insomnia, anxiety and resulting depression. Flip side? Man, things have been bleak around here. I’m certainly not feeling like myself and composing blog posts about concealer is not on my to-do list. In fact, I have no to-do lists. (See? I told you I’m not myself.)
I am so thankful to have a loving, supportive family and healthcare professionals that are my advocates and helping me through these unchartered waters. Although some days feel incredibly hopeless, I know brighter days are in my future. (They have to be, right?)
One of my very favorite quotes by Coach John Wooden seems to be apropos at the moment.
“When you improve a little each day, eventually big things occur…not tomorrow, not the next day, but eventually a big gain is made. Don’t look for the big, quick improvement. Seek the small improvement one day at a time. That’s the only way it happens–and when it happens it lasts.”
Perhaps you are going through something too. If so, please know that you are not alone, and that I am sending love and light your way. Big time.
Akiko
October 2, 2013 at 2:04 pmHi Sarah!
Thank you for your post. You sent me an encouraging message when we first launched our site and I am guessing you were totally in the thick of it…which brings me to think what an amazing person you are that despite your struggles you keep showing up for all of what this wonderful hard crazy life has to offer us!
Take Care,
Akiko
cyrie
October 2, 2013 at 3:47 pmxo. you are beautiful and strong!
Megan
October 3, 2013 at 7:38 amRe: your post on Lyme on FB (my thoughts are too long for a comment there…), my friend has struggled with Lyme for more than 5 years, and it has been devastating. A person who was once vibrant and striving was able to do little but lie in bed for 2 years. She’s on her way up now after experimenting with many, many different treatments.
All of this to say: I am SO GLAD you have a doctor who “believes” in Lyme (so many don’t!), recognized it and treated it seriously. I hope you’re on your way up, too.
LK
October 3, 2013 at 2:55 pmHey Sarah,
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’ve been a longtime reader and I can identify with wanting to stay sunny for your family and yourself, in the midst of bizarre physical/anxiety issues. It him me this summer after 34 anxious free years and i’m coming out of it. A health scare triggered 3 months of constant anxiety, but I also found a few things very helpful. Maybe they can serve you well. Natural supplements: Kavinance, Valerian, Cortisol manager and something called serotrex. Ask your naturopath. Also, try taking gluten out of your diet and getting your gut checked. It can really trigger anxiety!! Also, one more important thing. I finally started breathing!! It really works. Use guided imagery for stress/panic attacks and also check out coherent breathing. Not sure if you’re taking any anti-anxiety meds but they really made me feel, much, much worse. I say avoid if you can. Good luck and best wishes!
Layla
Em
October 6, 2013 at 5:27 pmHi Sarah,
I’ve been through those dark times and have come out on the other side. You will too. If you need to ease up on the blog posts, don’t worry. You won’t lose your loyal readers who appreciate your honesty, advice and style. They’ll just keep checking back to see how you’re doing.
Thank you for everything you share.
Em x
Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
October 7, 2013 at 10:34 pmSarah! I’ve been haunting Whoorl a bit, wondering how you’re doing, thinking of you! So happy to see your post here even though you share news of hard times. I’m so sorry things have felt bleak, and things are hard. I’m with all of your other lovely readers who want to reassure you that we will be here whenever you’re ready to post, even if that’s months from now. Sending peaceful thoughts.
katie
October 10, 2013 at 6:09 pmuh…so sorry to hear…i’ve battled on and off with the ugly depression monster my entire life….it’s like a wave i can’t stop crashing down on me…and for the most part i’m very much a “glass half-full” type of gal.
you’re not alone. thank you for being so transparent….us girls need to stick together and admit…life is fucking hard.
love,
katie