Several months ago in April I wrote a Post about mantras and their use in dealing with poor MH. A few months ago I made up a new one and it has served me well. It uses the three words above. I would like to elaborate on each one. 

Acknowledge

When a bad spell arrives, what do you do? There are various options. Personally I find the best choice is to acknowledge that my MH has dipped. Don’t panic!   

Accept

Acceptance is very important. I wrote about it on 18 June and I think some of the comments made by other Moodscopers are worth rereading. 

Accept the symptoms for what they are. Denial is unproductive and anger only makes matters worse.

I am not saying acceptance is always easy but if you can stay calm it allows you to move on to the next stage.

Manage

The way you can manage symptoms will depend upon a number of variables. If you are alone and it is convenient you may be able to sit and rest; close eyes and control breathing. If you are with others you may need to excuse yourself for a few moments. Sometimes you may acknowledge, accept and continue with whatever you are doing. 

When the symptoms recede (and they always do) give yourself a pat on the back. Don’t dwell on why they happened just congratulate yourself that you managed them and normal service is returning. 

One of the main objectives of this three stage process is reduce the risk of encouraging anxiety. It also proves that symptoms do pass. 

Recently I came across writing by the American poet Ralph Waldo Emerson. His poem is not directly connected to my Post but I liked the sentiments expressed:

“ This is my wish for you:

Comfort on difficult days,

smiles when sadness intrudes,

rainbows to follow the clouds,

laughter to kiss your lips,

sunsets to warm your heart, 

hugs when spirits sag,

beauty for your eyes to see,

friendships to brighten your being,

faith so you can believe,

confidence for when you doubt, 

courage to know yourself,

patience to accept the truth,

Love to complete your life.”   

Sounds so easy doesn’t it?

Teg