Oddly Me

Lately it feels like I’ve been coming down with the nasty bits. I’m not just talking about suffering from allergies or inner ear infections. I’m referring to the feelings of misery and depression where there shouldn’t be any. Moments of utter sadness or anxiety that can’t really be explained. They show up unexpectedly, waiting for us to engage them. But what causes it? You might ask yourself that question and think maybe there’s a reason that you’re depressed or in the dumps.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where being depressed or anxious requires a reason. Contrary to popular belief, it’s okay to feel this way and more importantly, there doesn’t always have to be a reason. Sometimes you’re just depressed or anxious and it’s as simple as that. There isn’t an external trigger. You are simply and utterly in that position. So what are we to do?

Many people suggest medication. The doctors will tell you it’s the best thing for you right now. They will inform you of the steps required to be “normal” again. But do we want to be normal? Sure, no one wants to feel sad, depressed, or anxious but do we really have to go about it the same way?

Recently, I’ve looked into some alternative therapy solutions to these deep problems. While I haven’t had the time to really test them out, I’m definitely heading in that direction. Already, there are so many people who have found various solutions to their issues through many alternative methods. These solutions certainly didn’t come without hard work and a want to get better, but nevertheless, they happened. I am a firm believer that medication isn’t the only way out. However, I also believe that the world definitely benefits from medication. It helps a lot of people, but sadly not all.

For those who have found themselves at a loss when it comes to prescribed medicine, or those who are looking for a more natural way out, I believe the solution lies in nature. I know it sounds very hippy of me to say, but nature holds so much for us. For centuries, herbs of all kinds have been helping us with our issues.

However, I feel like the most important step begins with yourself. That probably doesn’t make a lot of sense so allow me to explain. There are all sorts of things that we don’t like about ourselves. From the scars we have to being overweight, there’s always something about our body or personality that makes us look the other way. It’s taken me a long time to really get the hang of it, but I started looking within rather than averting my internal gaze.

Whatever imperfections you have, don’t ignore, shun, or deny them. Accept it all. Realize that this is a part of who you are in this exact moment. If there is something you can do to change it, work towards it. No, it won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. And if you can’t change it, learn to be who you are with it…and thrive. The same goes with depression and anxiety. Realize that these pieces of darkness that reside within you are there for a reason. Of course, just realizing and accepting these things won’t make them go away. But the point of it all is learning to be you and pushing past what you thought you couldn’t.

Stop and think that maybe these bits of black are here for a reason. Whether it be a lesson or a piece of life to make you stronger, it’s okay if your brain chemistry is a little or a lot off balance. People may try to brand you, but don’t let that discourage you from being exactly who you feel you should be. Your personal perspective matters the most. How you see yourself is much more vital than opinions from outside forces.