Black Sheep Brainchild

Tomorrow is my last day of work for the week. Sunday marks the 15th year since my mom died. I took off Thursday through Monday to stay home, be kind to myself, take some time.

I dubbed March 2023 as “The March From Hell”. I can NOT repeat that one. I am only half-joking when I tell people if I do that I will not make it through it.

The anniversary hit me early and with a vengeance. On top of that I was sick. And on top of that, due to the med shortages, I was off of my adhd and depression meds.

It. Was. Awful.

Beyond awful.

I should have probably committed myself for a bit, but I didn’t.

I somehow made it through.

And this year I took steps to ensure history would not repeat itself.

I worked with my doctor and made sure I was on a med that was not having supply issues, and had it refilled before March began. I set up therapy appointments and goals within those to work on things and reinforce coping strategies. I took time off work. I scheduled a tattoo for the first day. I checked in with friends to schedule check-ins this weekend and with a counselor for a check-in as well. I plan on writing. I plan on crafting. I plan on simply existing on the couch with the animals around me if that is all I can do. And I have ice cream in the freezer, ready to go.

I will not repeat last year.

Time will pass and I will make it through this one, just as I have each prior one.

——

Do anniversaries affect you in a similar way? Be kind to yourself. Plan ahead if you can. Check in with people and reach out when you would otherwise hide. Take steps to make it through.

You can do this.

I can do this.

We can do this.