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Old 04-29-2016, 03:35 PM
NurseKris NurseKris is offline
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Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: PA
Posts: 163
10 yr Member
NurseKris NurseKris is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: PA
Posts: 163
10 yr Member
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When I am having a rough time one of the things that really helps me it to have a good cry. I just did this the other day and it was one of those really ugly cries too. After that I took a big breath and moved on to another thing in what I call my AAHHH arsenal.

To echo Catra I also enjoy coloring. My sister got me a book and colored pencils for Christmas and it has been wonderful to have. Even though it takes me a while to complete a whole page (it's one of the more detailed ones) I still get a sense of accomplishment when I finish.

I also crochet and knit a lot now. I taught myself how to do it using videos I found online about 2 years ago and know I think I'm pretty good at it. Knitting I feel takes more concentration so I crochet more than I knit.

When I was first diagnosed I was really down and as time went on I began to feel worthless. But doing my crafts I began to feel like I was actually doing something worthwhile. Plus being able to give my family gifts that I made and hearing them say how much they loved it made me feel so much better. I also just started making tutus and they are incredibly easy to make. Honestly there are some days I just can't focus enough on a project so I allow myself some time to rest and then get right back at it as soon as I am able.

I also have meditation and relaxation apps that I put on my iPad and I have found them to be helpful. I had to try a few different ones until I found some that work for me. I use these at night to try and calm myself so I can sleep better.

Sometimes I find it helpful to break a task into parts. When I do this I don't feel defeated instead I feel accomplished when I complete each step.

The other weird thing I do is I tell my dogs what is going on. I sit down with them and pet them while venting or just telling them how I feel. They are great listeners! I know it sounds crazy but it really makes me feel better. I don't know if you have any pets but if you don't I guess a stuffed animal would work too. I also talk to my dad, he died when I was 18 but I like to think he is still there listening.

I hope some of these help plus don't forget we are here!
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"Thanks for this!" says:
BioBased (04-29-2016), catra121 (04-29-2016), St George 2013 (04-29-2016), zinnia (04-29-2016)