The other day I had brunch with a friend. Rather than stick to fluffy brunch talk, we actually got into a serious discussion about mental health. She's very successful and lovely, and I learned on top of being fabulous also suffers from some depression and anxiety.
As I explained to her some of my OCD, she was very sympathetic and understanding. She told me about some of her struggles, but noted that she was always very functional. She would get her work done, and then worry when she got home.
I loved her use of the term. It reminds me of a a refrigerator that's missing some trays and lightbulbs, but still keeps food cold. Even if things are messy, it still works. It gets the job done.
I have also generally been surprisingly functional. Despite huge amounts of anxiety, I have always focused on doing what was necessary in my life and not letting things slip. I kept my grades up, I would go into work, etc. One time when things were particularly bad and my anxiety was extremely high, I went to the emergency room for a mental health consult, hoping to find some help to carry me over until I could get in to see someone. They said that they could keep me for 72 hours if I felt like it, to which I replied, "I can't, I have work in the morning."
That's a true triumph for a Monday: being a functional member of society.
Not letting OCD or anxiety be the priority is tough. OCD and anxiety are insistent. They often refuse to be ignored. Sometimes it is easy to feel like a total crazy person and a failure for having mental health problems. Celebrating small victories can help you keep some perspective. Appreciate your functionality.
-Laura
Laura, I can relate, even though I don't think I have OCD... just a few habits that some might consider such! But I understand that no matter what, there are those of us who get the job done. Well, I do when it's a job that matters, that has a deadline -- deadlines help me terrifically! Otherwise, I'm not sure anything would get done -- I'd have too much fun playing!
ReplyDeleteYour blog looks very nice and the email/google are working well. Bravo!
Thanks so much! You are always so well put together and do such interesting things - you're definitely a person who gets the job done.
DeleteI think that it is a shame that the DSM categorizes many mental illnesses by whether or not someone's mental health issues impact their functionality. It is concerning if a person cannot perform their daily activities because of mental health issues, but plenty of people who can carry out their roles are still suffering.
ReplyDeleteWith that being said, I am proud of you for powering through and continuing to work hard even with anxiety! You are a fighter!
I agree that there should be more consideration for those who are battling through the day. They might be fighting well, but they could still use some extra support to help out!
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