((((Lavoco))))

I've only been with my T for 8 months or so, but this is the most successful 8 months in all my years of therapy.

First the proper Dx was/is crucial. It's like a little lightbulb goes off over your head and you can breathe again and you think, "Ooooo, that's what it is." and "No wonder I've..." And there is an understanding in it. And acceptance.

And with that acceptance and understanding comes the desire (at least for me) to find ways to deal with all the issues what you are actually in T for.

So you work together to find ways to "cope". And those coping mechanisms are "tools".

"Tools" for me have been varied. And I think they are different for everyone.

For me, they are the little affirmations, mental flashcards, to brainiac instruction manuals on how to cope (cope = so I do not fall deep down back into that pit again).

However, if I DO fall down into the pit (which I just suddenly and surprisingly did just recently), I have new ways from therapy -that I never had before or even knew about or considered - (my tools), to get myself back on track and feeling better.

I also learned that the timeframe is unknown, but it's quicker than before I had the "tools", and it isn't for as long. I bounce back quicker with my "tools".

I hope this is a little helpful