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June 7, 2009 |
May Volume 4, Number 3 |
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Taking Care of You
May is here, to those of you are Mother’s, a friend to someone who was in need at the time, or anyone who has offered a child a hug when one was needed, Happy Mother’s Day. To the Dad’s who are now both Mom and Dad, Happy Mother’s Day.
Spring has sprung, almost summer in some places. A time of rebirth, a time to grow flowers and maybe even water our souls so we can grow from within. We here at GROWW know that this can be a tough time for many people. The parents who are watching other people’s children graduate High School or College. Your heart breaks and your soul aches, our thoughts are with you, spend time with people who love you.
Some people love to plant new flowers as a sign of spring and rebirth, there is nothing like seeing all of the new bright blooms. I always look around when I drive and am in awe of the beautiful and amazing quantity of blooms I see when driving around. Some people have green thumbs, some people do it for therapy, some do it for the pure joy of gardening. I always wished I could do that, but I have a black thumb, as a dear friend of mine says, I could kill a rock garden.
Whatever it is that you enjoy doing, get out there and enjoy it, try gardening, it may be just the therapy you need to keep busy on those long weekends that you have no plans for anymore. Find something to try, then when you are done you might just feel a sense of accomplishment, then reward yourself with a nice hot bubble bath, maybe even a manicure and pedicure.
May is halfway over already, June will be here before we know it. To all of the Dad’s out there, Happy Father’s Day and to the Mom’s who are now both parents, Happy Father’s Day to you.
May the summer bring everyone some peace and maybe even a vacation that is probably long over due and very much necessary.
Until next month Good grief
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Helping Yourself
Managing Depression After a LossBy Stanley Popovich – Some people have a difficult time managing the symptoms of depression after a death of a loved one. Sometimes, their depression and fears can get the best of them. Here is a short list of techniques that a person can use to help manage depression after a loss. Learn to take it one day at a time. Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or coming month, try to focus on today. Do things that relax you. Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting out of bed in the mornings. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Challenge negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make you fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. Do not focus on exaggerated assumptions. Learn to get the facts of your given situation. Keep a notebook of positive thoughts. Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read those statements. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If your depression becomes unmanageable, talk to a professional who can help you manage your it. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. Managing your fears and anxieties takes practice. The more you practice, the better you will become. Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods” - an easy to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to: http://www.managingfear.com/ MANAGING THE FEAR OF LONELINESS AFTER A LOSS
By Stanley Popovich
Sometime or another we will experience a time when we are alone after a loss. The first step is to become comfortable with yourself and having the self-confidence that you will be able to manage being alone. There is nothing wrong with being alone. If being alone bothers you then seeing a counselor can help you with these issues.
In the meantime, here is a short list of techniques that a person can use so that the fear of being alone doesn’t become a major issue in their lives.
The first step is to find an activity that you enjoy and where you can meet a lot of people. For instance, joining a group activity such as a volleyball group, women’s club, or making crafts can be a great way to meet people. Doing something that you like to do will make you happy and will increase your chances of making friends.
Spending time with animals can be a great source of companionship. Having a dog or cat can make us feel loved. If you don’t own a dog or cat, then volunteer at the local animal shelter. Spending time with an animal or pet can help us to feel better and can be of good company to all of us whether we are alone or not.
Helping others through community service can be of some help. There are many people out there who could benefit from your time and talents. Helping others can give you a source of pride, help you feel better about yourself, and can provide long lasting friendships. Give it a try and you will be surprised.
Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your lonely or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For example, some people may think that if they are alone at the present time then they will always be alone. This is not true. Even if your alone today doesn’t mean that you will be alone all the time. No one can predict the future with one hundred percent accuracy.
It isn’t fun being alone, but sometimes there are worse things. For instance, imagine that you are married or stuck in a relationship that you can’t get out of and also makes you miserable. Not only do you have to live with this person, there is no way to get out of the relationship because of various financial or personal reasons. As a result, you are stuck living with someone that you can’t stand and makes you depressed every single day of your life. With this viewpoint, being alone doesn’t sound that bad.
The important thing is to do something constructive. Sitting around and doing nothing will not make things any better whether it is dealing with the fear of being alone or something else. Go out and do something that you like to do. In addition, take it one day at a time and stay committed in trying to solve your problem.
BIOGRAPHY: Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to: http://www.managingfear.com/
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Poetry
I found this poem in the archives, thanks to Karen C for sending it in a long time ago. I think it is perfect for this time of year.
Love is Never Silent
A loving heart, a gentle smile a warm and tender touch We give so many things in life but nothing means as much.
A little inspiration when one loses hope, A kind word of encouragement when they no longer seem to cope.
A simple phrase, "I love you" when no one else is there Taking hold onto a hand in a little heartfelt prayer.
Love is never silent It has so much to say, And it is our greatest blessing when we give it all away.
You, (((( My Friend )))) and this flower, are my blessings for this day !
Quote Of The Day **** "I Shall Pass This Way But Once, Therefore, Any Good That I Can do or Any Kindness That I Can Show, Let Me Do It Now, For I Shall Not Pass This Way Again " |
