Today, I want to open up and share a deeply personal and emotional journey I've been on lately. It's a story of struggle, resilience, and the emotional battle that comes with it. The past few months have been tough, with a persistent cloud of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) looming over my life. This journey, combined with the weight of deciding what to do with our remaining embryos, has had a significant impact on my mental well-being. You may have begun to notice my slow absence from all things social media, whilst I have and continue to battle with these struggles, but I wanted to take a moment to discuss this and share my experience with you all.
The Struggle with SAD
SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is something I've dealt with for many many years. Some years are better than others, but as the days grew shorter, and the sun's warmth faded, I could feel its presence creeping in. The lack of natural light, the gloomy weather, and the bitter cold can take a toll on anyone's mood, but for those of us already dealing with emotional challenges, it can feel like a heavy storm cloud blocking the sun.
SAD isn't just about feeling a little down during the winter months; it can be a relentless battle against overwhelming sadness, fatigue, and an all-encompassing sense of hopelessness. Coping with SAD while trying to maintain a demanding work schedule adds an extra layer of difficulty. Balancing the responsibilities of daily life with the persistent darkness can sometimes feel like an insurmountable task.
The Emotional Battle: Remaining Embryos
Adding to the emotional storm is the decision regarding what to do with our remaining embryos. This is a choice that carries significant weight and requires careful consideration. It's a decision that has the potential to affect not only my life but also the future lives of our family and these embryos. The gravity of this choice has weighed heavily on my mind, compounding the emotional turmoil caused by SAD.
It's a decision that has made me question myself, my values, and my hopes for the future. It's a process that requires courage, introspection, and a deep evaluation and understanding of what's best for our family.
The Impact on My Mental Health
The combined weight of these challenges has taken a toll on my mental health. My mood has often been low, and maintaining a sense of balance and optimism has felt like an uphill battle. It's important to acknowledge that seeking help and support is a vital part of dealing with such mental and emotional struggles. If you or someone you know is going through a similar situation, remember that you don't have to go through it alone.
I've found solace in a number of ways, and in taking moments to care for myself. It's essential to recognise that our emotional battles are not signs of weakness, but rather opportunities for growth and resilience.
Looking Towards the Rainbows
As a brand committed to positivity, support, hope and personal growth, I know that Rain 2 Rainbow is all about the journey from struggle to triumph. Our name symbolises the transition from the darkest of storms to the vibrant beauty of a rainbow. This journey can be a challenging one, but it's one we all often navigate.
I wanted to share my story with you all because I believe in the power of openness and vulnerability. My struggle with SAD and the emotional weight of deciding what to do with our remaining embryos have been significant challenges in my life, but I'm determined to find my way from the rain to the rainbow!
If you're going through a similar struggle or feeling the weight of a demanding schedule, remember that you're not alone. Reach out to your support system, take time for self-care, and keep your eyes on the horizon, where the rainbows await.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me, and for your patience as well as your ongoing support. I promise to try not to be too absent.