Some days my children are arguing, I can’t find my mobile, we’ve run out of milk and work feels like its falling apart and I think ‘I can’t do this, it’s too much!’ On other days my children are arguing, I can’t find my mobile, we’ve run out of milk and work feels like it is falling apart and I think ‘Wow, I love my life’.
Same situation, different way of thinking and feeling about them.
How many times have you seen inspirational quotes telling you to think positively? Or had people tell you that you should be grateful, other people have much harder lives? Sometimes this can work. Yes I know running out of milk is not really a big deal when there are people in the world without food! However, if you are feeling really low or depressed these reminders of your ‘privilege’ can just reinforce negative feelings towards yourself ‘How can I be so selfish?’ Does that sound familiar?
So how do we feel better about our situations when things are feeling bleak? Some therapies will tell you that it is just about changing the way you think and your feelings and behaviours will follow. This has worked for me when it’s been about smaller stuff. However, having a positive mental attitude can feel unattainable when getting up and getting dressed feels too much. For some people sitting down with a counsellor and talking through the issues that are distressing you, can be the first step to helping you feel better and start to see your life in a new, more positive light.
If you feel that speaking to someone could help you feel more optimistic about the future, please contact me and we can begin that journey today.
Nicola Medlicott Counselling Services 