Sunny with a breeze in the air as I write another blog. “Spring Break 1995 Radio” plays on Pandora from my iPhone. The songs are memories from high school and my undergraduate years. Fun and crazy times. My depression went in waves during these periods, as I did not take any medication or seek therapy. I fought to be my best: academically, socially and professionally in the workplace.

Today I met with my therapist. Pscychotherapy allows me to be honest and open about my life in private. Here I grow and do not face stigma. The professionals in mental health are educated and know to trust me when I am doing well or need some extra support. It has been over twenty years that I have taken responsibility for my depression and anxiety. Together I work closely with my doctors for medication and continue therapy. I have educated myself and found healthy coping strategies to deal with my trauma and PTSD. If I am feeling “off” I immediately contact my mental health providers.

Being in nature helps greatly with my depression and anxiety. My mood and energy level lift while relaxing me. We have beautiful trees surrounding our backyard and neighbor’s property. Maples, pines, blue spruce and others I cannot recall their names. The sun is moving in the west preparing for earlier sunsets. Cooler darker days are coming. The crickets are lively. The birds, squirrels and pigeons (from the barn behind our home) are not coming to the feeders and bird bath at this moment because I am in their circle. Pots of hens and chicks and coneflowers wait to planted this Autumn to return next year. Always work to be done inside and outside our home. I enjoy getting my hands into the dirt and on warmer days I love walking barefoot.

Have a peaceful evening and never be afraid to seek mental health for yourself or a loved one. We all face some degree of mental health in our life span. Get out and enjoy nature too.