I write this on VE-Day, 80 years after the Allies’ Victory in Europe. A neighbour has a telling sticker on her car, saying, “Not All Disabilities Are Visible.” My thoughts wandered to Sir Winston Churchill, who famously referred to his own battle with depression as battling the black dog.

What can we learn from his own battles with the invisible foe?

Churchill found time for creativity, he lived his life as playing a role as a vital part of a bigger purpose, humour and wit were pressed into regular service, he harnessed support from his wife, invested in physical activity, and took regular naps. He also used unhelpful coping mechanisms – drinking, smoking, and being a workaholic.

Let’s borrow some of these strategies.

Creativity: Churchill came to painting in his 40s. It allowed him to focus on beauty and therapeutic creativity, giving him a refuge from what he called his, “worry and mental overstrain.”

His writing offered him intellectual engagement and must have led to a great sense of accomplishment.

It is a delight to hear about so many creative activities which our own members engage in.

Purpose and Meaningful Work: Churchill understood the value of a sense of duty to the Nation and to World Peace. His own struggles when seen in the context of the bigger historical narrative he was to play such a prominent part in no doubt helped him through some of the darkest hours. So many of our community volunteer in their local communities – all for worthy causes. I’m certain this can help in our own battle against the invisible.

A Sense of Humour and Quick Wit: Many a time, I have literally laughed out loud at content members share. Churchill managed to find cause for levity even in the hardest moments. May we always keep our sense of humour!

The Tribe: Lady Clementine Churchill was his rock, his anchor, his strong tower. Let’s take a moment to be thankful for those who, also, are there for us.

Physical Distraction at Chartwell: I did not realise that Churchill involved himself in landscaping and bricklaying, alongside walking on the Chartwell Estate. We’ve had a multitude of blogs that have championed the value of physical exertion in promoting wellbeing. Fancy a bit of bricklaying?

Catnaps: Sleep heals. Catnaps can help us manage our energy. All those in favour, say, “Zzzzzz!”

As we remember the examples of dedication, courage, and sacrifice that have granted us the freedoms most of us enjoy today, let’s draw lessons from Churchill’s own approach to dealing with the invisible enemy while the battle continues… and never surrender.

Lex

A Moodscope member