Parenthood, and Mental Health Awareness – Just a Week

Jun 28

Balancing Life’s Demands

This week, I found myself unable to publish my blog on time, and honestly, I am still unsure why. After reviewing my calendar, I realized I had few excuses, except for feeling exhausted from the challenges of parenting and striving to improve at the gym. Some of my time was spent assisting others with therapeutic laser engraving projects that I hoped would brighten their days. Meanwhile, I have been wrestling with how to finish the non-fiction book I’ve been writing, while also considering a mature-rated sequel to my current book. For two weeks, I deliberately cut myself off from television, but yesterday I binge-watched an entire series in one evening. Sometimes, taking things away from ourselves helps us appreciate their value and privilege in our lives.

A Journey of Realizations

This week, I wanted to discuss ideas that have resonated with me, though I recognize some are not achievable, not for lack of will, but because of circumstances. After enlisting, I returned to school to complete my undergraduate and graduate degrees, discovering a love for math. My electives are complex, focusing on college-level calculus and engineering courses. I considered using the VA for an alternative teaching certification but given my upcoming kids and my husband’s work schedule, that isn’t an option. Officially, I am the parent who will be the guardian of the galaxy, so to speak. I’ve authored a book, yet I am far from a grammar expert and my vocabulary is limited. However, I excel at simplifying and solving complex problems, which my therapist attributes to the way my mind works.

Optimism and Realism

What am I getting at? In life, many of us fall into the categories of optimists, pessimists, or a unique blend of both. I am not the blend I hoped to be, but my optimism often aligns with the realism that life presents. Whether this is a result of trauma or stress, I cannot say. I tend to see things for what they are yet also search for meaning. I consider myself a realistic optimist, or an optimistic realist. I rarely view things as unattainable dreams, instead leaning toward pragmatic hope, contingency planning, and a solution-oriented mindset. Mission planning has been part of my life long before my military service.

Empathy and Awareness

For years, I have been told that women often approach situations with more emotion, and I agree this is sometimes true and often warranted. I mention this because June is PTSD Awareness Month. I have often faced criticism for my balanced approach to empathy, sympathy, and what I call the “saddle up” method. Recently, I did a public speaking event for the first time since leaving the military. I was nervous, sweating, and although it was not a massive crowd, it was meaningful. I had to reflect not only on my own life but on the number of suicides I helped prevent throughout my career. I did this with empathy, sympathy, and the saddle up approach delicately, but effectively. I always strive to humanize myself in these situations because you only get one opportunity; there is no second chance in saving someone from suicide or in helping someone understand why life is worth living.

Overcoming Difficulties

Honestly, this week has been challenging. During the public speaking event, I shared many stories, some from my own life, some from others, revisiting difficult moments to help others see that despite adversity, it is possible to emerge stronger and defeat negative thoughts.

Mental Health Awareness and Duty

This month is dedicated to those who have ever considered or struggled with suicide or any mental health or post-traumatic stress. It is a time for awareness, a reminder of our responsibility to care for ourselves and to be prepared to help others through selfless acts.