[HD7970GHZ]

Hi community,

I am currently retraumatized and in the worst shape I have ever been. Trying so hard to stay alive. Could use some advice from the community.

How do you persevere when life gets tough?

Thanks,
HD7970ghz

[Breaking Dawn]

There's an old saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." I'm not sure how to interpret that. For me, evetually things get better, after I've hammered away at it with everything I can think of. And I've heard people say these worse times do make us tougher. I'm very sorry you are going through such a bad time. Lots of hugs!

[happysobercrafter]

When I am overwhelmed, I try to face what is overwhelming me. Once I accept it, it loses its hold over me. Some things that are bothering me take me awhile to figure out what is going on in my brain. Have you ever tried that?

Do you see a counselor? A therapist can help you through this but there are also things you can do for self-care.

[Mopey]

Sorry you're in such pain, H. If it makes you feel better, I don't feel very good either.

Sending you many virtual hugs and thoughts... ( )

[bpcyclist]

I'm sorry you are struggling. Basically, when I am in your position, which is fairly often, I just refuse to give up. Just don't quit. Keep fighting. And when it gets to be just too, too much, I go lay down and regroup. It has worked so far. Not sure where you are on the spiritual thing, but I also pray a LOT. It helps me enormously. So, don't give up. Power through it. You can do it. Even if it's super-hard. Sending you positive vibes.

I take long showers
I go for long bike rides
I pray
I swim
I sleep a lot
I cuddle my cat

[Lilly2]

I persevere by...

self-caring
other-caring
believing that "this, too, shall pass"
finding support
taking one day at a time
resting, relaxing, taking breaks
breaking tasks down into manageable pieces
connecting with others who are struggling similarly

[StrangerthnFiction]

When life is rough, I try to see at least something through an optimistic viewpoint. It could be work, play, family, friends, self-gratifying behaviors.


The 'self-gratifying behaviors' part of the answer might not sound like it makes sense though. I just don't think all self-gratifying behaviors are bad -- like eating or reading or sex. Too much is bad though, obviously. Being too gratifying to yourself is gluttonous -- and not just with food. Addictions arise that are seriously hazardous.

To persevere, I also summon the courage otherwise left in the dust to try to accomplish the task at hand.

[emilyrose3406]

There are some things I do is when I'm anxious, or memories from PTSD come up that I learned in group therapy. One: when the bad thoughts come up. Realize the thought, write it down in a notebook and let it go. Two: staying present in the moment. Take a breath in and count to 5, let it out for 7 seconds. While doing this pay attention to what's around you ex: the music playing noises out side ect. Three: for depression keep a journal for things your grateful for every day. A second journal for complements people have given you every day. Whether you believe them or not, or from a complete stranger. One last note, surround your self with people you trust and dont isolate your self.

[Breaking Dawn]

Thank you, @emilyrose3406, for your wonderful advice! And welcome to PC!!

[Fuzzybear]

HD

[Maestro72]

I know I'm kind of late to the show here, but I persevere by remembering what I hope for. It can be different for everyone. For me, I have faith that there is more to this life than I can see or feel. And my hope is in the promise that I will be restored in the afterlife. For others, it can be hope for things to be better in this life in their future. Regardless though, it's ok to be depressed and allow yourself time to grieve about things but it is important to set yourself limits on how long you are going to do so. Try adding positive things to your life, even if it's in little increments.

[Breaking Dawn]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this, @Maestro72. And welcome to PC!

[HD7970GHZ]

Thank you everyone for posting!

I love the insight shared. So much to think about. I will reflect on this from time to time.


Lately I've been trying SO hard to re-wire my brain. I'm trying to focus on positive things, and remind myself that there is always hope. These are themes I have seen in all your posts and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing.


What is your go to coping skill in times of extreme stress?


Thanks,
HD7970ghz

[mng36]

Hello! When the going gets tough, I try to take a step back from everything and try to remember my self care. I take a bubble bath, sit with my plants, and make sure I eat healthy. I also try to surround myself with my friends and positive influences in my life. These things often make me feel distracted from my life event, and give me a reason to smile.

Take things day by day. It is hard to see the good in the every day, but even if it is something as small as the sun shining through the clouds, hang on to that. Keep going.

[zapatoes]

Yes it is tough when you feel overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, unmotivated, etc. Sometimes it helps me to takes things one day at a time, make a list of things to do, break a big job into smaller parts.

Exercise, eat right, sleep enough.