I am writing this exactly because I am going through a difficult time at this moment. As I am writing this, I feel a sense of peace just being able to talk about it even without going into details.
If you are a mother going through something difficult right now, I hug you in the distance.
This post is simply my heart speaking to yours. These are small reminders that are helping me take one step at a time, and I hope they can bring you comfort as well.
You Are Not Alone
When we go through a difficult time, it can feel very lonely. You may feel lost, confused, scared, and sometimes even hopeless.
These feelings are normal during hard moments in life. But please remember that you are not alone. There are others going through similar situations who can offer understanding and support. Your family can also play an important role in helping you through this time. Let them help you.
It’s Okay to Need Space
Right now, I do not feel ready to see many people I know in person. I have shared what I’m going through with only a handful of people. My family knows more details, but even with my closest friend, I prefer not to go too deep into it yet.
I simply do not feel ready. I do not want to answer questions or explain things when I still do not have the answers myself.
And that’s okay.
Take It One Day at a Time
This is easier said than done. I know.
I try to wake up each day with a grateful heart and positive thoughts, but some days are just hard. On those days, I feel desperate and overwhelmed. When that happens, I remind myself to pause, breathe, and take things one day at a time.
My therapist recommended two techniques:
5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique
When emotions feel overwhelming, grounding techniques can help bring your mind back to the present moment. One simple method is the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, which involves saying the following out loud:
- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can touch
- 3 things you can hear
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste
For additional information, visit CHYP website.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
When we are going through a difficult time, our bodies often carry a lot of stress and tension without us even realizing it. Finding small ways to relax the body can help bring moments of calm during overwhelming days.
One technique that may help is Progressive Muscle Relaxation. It is a simple method that involves gently tensing different muscle groups and then slowly releasing the tension. As you move through the body, this practice helps you notice the difference between tight, stressed muscles and relaxed ones, which can help your body and mind feel more at ease.
For additional information, visit the website of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which offers a detailed explanation and helpful resources. You can also check out Therapy in a Nutshell, where you’ll find a video with guided instructions for practicing this technique.
Rely on Prayer
I believe in prayer and its healing power. It has helped me through difficult moments in the past.
Sometimes I feel like my prayers are not being answered because I want to see results quickly. But I remind myself that prayer takes time. Sometimes we simply have to let go and trust.
I have a specific prayer I try to read every day, and I also like listening to songs that bring me peace.
Speak Positive Words
Even when you feel like you cannot stand up, try your best to speak positive words.
There have been moments when I catch myself speaking negatively out of desperation. When that happens, I try to pause, clear my mind, and return to positive thoughts.
One thing that helps me is listening to positive affirmations on YouTube that relate to what I am going through.
Cry and Then Get Back Up
There is something very healing about crying. If you need to cry, let yourself cry.
People often say we have to be strong, but crying does not make you weak, it makes you human.
When I cry, it helps release everything I have been holding inside. It allows me to let go of some of the pain.
It is okay to cry. The challenge comes when we stay stuck in negative thoughts and let them take control. Believe me, I have been there.
If we stay in that place for too long, we can fall into depression, which does not help our situation. Writing in a journal can help. It allows you to express your feelings and track both the good days and the difficult ones.
Be Grateful for Small Improvements
Sometimes progress may seem small to others. But if you can do something today that you could not do yesterday, that matters.
Be grateful for every small step forward. Every small win is still a win, and you should feel proud of it.
Hug Your Family Tight
Hug your family. Give them kisses. Tell them how much you love them.
Physical affection can be powerful. A simple hug can help reduce stress and remind us that we are supported and loved. That love can help us face even the hardest obstacles.
Final Thoughts
If you are going through a difficult time, remember that you are not alone.
Better days will come. Try your best to stay hopeful, even on the darkest days, and trust God through the process.
Best wishes,
Mel
