We have one more meeting before our Christmas Social at the Hare and Hounds. Not all of us are eating so please feel welcome to come along and join us for a drink or just to catch up with everyone.
Unfortunately Steve didn't get chance to talk about the Art Therapy Sessions. So I have taken the liberty to email our regular members for some idea's on how to progress with this project. If you haven't had an email and want to share your idea's please let me know. Everyone's opinion is greatly valued.
This week I have been thinking a lot about how anxiety can be so disabling. How it can stop you in your tracks, like a rabbit in the head lights. Although, like most mental health conditions, it can give you a sense of confusion, like being stuck in the middle of a maze not knowing which way to go and panicking that you will never find the exit! Trying to choose the correct path, shall I go this way or that? Perhaps wanting someone to put you on that path and walk with you, so you don't fall by the wayside.
I was introduced to a condition called "Aphantasia", I've put it on our Facebook Page, have a look it's fascinating. Folks suffering from this condition have no imagination, no minds eye, they are unable to visualise anything. When mulling this over in my head it occurred to me that I have quite an active imagination that probably contributes to my anxiety! I can change a normal mental image of an event into some sort of catastrophe! For example, if driving and I have someone or something run out in front of me, like everyone I will brake sharply and come to a sudden halt, then breath a sigh of relief that all is OK, I didn't cause anyone any harm Phew! Relax? No not me, the vision of this event will replay and replay in my mind, going over and adding the catastrophizing bits as I go. I relive it, plus the extra bits that didn't happen, every time I drive, for many weeks, too many weeks. I then pass this event, along with the extra bits, to my husband, children, grandchildren, step children, friends.. Sharing this experience, offloading my catastrophe onto them! Is this my anxiety talking or passing on helpful advise?
The joys of having an anxious mind. Well I am finding the Mindfulness CBT very useful when trying to deal with me anxiety. I feel slightly less confused, less stuck in the headlights. Slightly more confident that I can do this recovery thing on my own, although a helpful hand every now and then is very much appreciated. As long as I don't pay too much attention to my imagination, of what is around the next corner, I'm sure I'll find the exit!
Hope the week has been good to you all.
Ruth