Getting Back Into Exercising (Mental Health Awareness #3)

Do you ever have moments where you haven't worked out in awhile? When you come back to it, do you feel out of shape? That's how it was for me last night! 

I recently formed an intramural basketball team with some of my friends at college. We practiced for the first time last night. I haven't played basketball much for a few years, so it's a form of exercise I am not used to. 

It felt really good to get up and moving. Of course I am super sore from it, but there's many things that benefit me when it comes to getting exercise. I feel better mentally and emotionally. It is really something that helps me to stay happy and also get a workout in. 

Tell me how you get a good workout in! Leave a comment in the comments section of my blog!

Being Happy (Mental-Health Awareness #2)

 Hey everyone,

Today, I'm gonna be talking about my journey with mental health and what it has been like overcoming those issues, and what it feels like to be happy. 

I was diagnosed with depression and a mood disorder when I was 16. I probably had those issues for several months before my diagnosis. Before I was officially diagnosed, I had mood swings pretty frequently. One minute, I would be on cloud nine and the next I would be crying on the floor. I would also have times where I would get impulsive or angry. 

I ended up in a mental health hospital on a 72-hour hold, which is basically suicide watch. I had hit rock bottom and was in a very dark place. It was scary for me and my family. I went from being this bubbly, happy human being to being agitated and sad. It was horrible not being the person I know I am.

Once I got out of the hospital, I was put on medications, set up with a psychiatrist, and had to start putting in efforts for my recovery at therapy. I really learned the true value of therapy and my meds when I regressed mentally last semester. I was very depressed and lonely. I felt that no one could help me and that there was no way out. As it turns out, I was wrong. 

I started putting in more work at therapy (more than ever before) because I am the only one that can control my how I deal with my feelings. No one else can do that for me. They can tell me how to do it, but they cannot do it for me. 

Now, I have been happier than I have been since I was 16 and I don't let things get to me as much. It is a weird feeling, but it is so much better than feeling down all the time! 

Have you ever had mental health struggles? How do you cope with stress and other issues? Feel free to leave a comment!

Until next time,

Caitlin

Birthday Celebration: Turning 22!

 Today, I turned 22! Celebrating my birthday has always been different every year. Last year, it was difficult for me to celebrate due to a family matter the previous day. Last year was also my 21st birthday and oddly enough, I did not want to celebrate like everyone else when they turn 21. This year, I have had more people celebrate for or with me than ever before. I am making a bigger deal out of it this year because it actually feels like my birthday! I am so honored to have friends and family that care about me and to celebrate with me! I hope 22 turns into something great!