As much as the movies would have us believe, life is rarely a box of chocolates. Bad things happen, partners cheat on us, a loved one dies unexpectedly, or we are diagnosed with a serious illness. You can’t prevent these things from happening, unfortunately, but you can do your best to prevent them from tearing your life apart.
Nobody’s life is perfect. It doesn’t matter how rich you are, or how pampered your existence is, sooner or later life will kick you in the teeth. When this happens, you have two choices. One is to lie back and take it, the other is to pick yourself up and fight back. Which option you take is up to you, but I recommend option two.
Breathe in and Count to Ten
Whatever the cause of your woes, you are likely to be in shock for a while. Shock has a habit of disabling us. We can’t sleep, cry, or deal with anything. Instead, we go over what’s happened, repeatedly, rather like the events of Groundhog Day.
Instead of allowing events to flatten you, breathe deeply and try to stay calm. You can deal with this, so take things one day at a time.
Share the Load
No man or woman is an island. A problem shared is a problem halved, so reach out and ask for help. Friends are there for you, but you need to ask for help. Draw your loved ones close and let them shoulder some of your burden. That’s what friends are for.
Talking Therapy
Sometimes, talking to friends is not enough. As much as our friends and loved ones want to help, there is only so much help and support a friend can offer. After all, they have their own life to lead and they can’t be there 24/7.
If you are struggling to deal with your crisis, make an appointment to speak to an online therapist or counselor in your neighborhood. Counsellors and therapists are trained professionals who can help you work through your pain, grief, and anger. Don’t expect a quick fix, but a few sessions with a counselor or therapist should be enough to get you back on the road to recovery.
Practical Solutions
Once the initial shock has faded, start looking for practical solutions to your problems. Do you need somewhere else to live? Do you need cash? Think through your problems logically and reach out to friends and family for help. No matter how impossible a problem appears, there is always a solution if you look hard enough.
Let It Go
Don’t hang on to resentment and anger, or it will poison you from within. Instead, try and let it go. Railing at the injustice of your situation, or vowing revenge against the person who hurt you won’t help you to heal your wounds. Learn the art of forgiveness.
Move On
In time, you will be able to move past this terrible time. It may take a while, but you are strong enough!
