The not so pretty truth

One of the hardest parts of dealing with mental health issues, is dealing with the aftermath of an episode.

Episodes can last a few hours or weeks. During these episodes the brain can get manic (a moment of mental/emotional extreme – high or low).

Manic can be really ugly… Some folks go on an extreme roller coaster. They say or do things that hurt other or themselves. Often the choices they make are irrational. They do or say things that in a calm state of mind would offend them to the core.

There are real consequences to these choices. I am writing this post because the aftermath of those consequences can be extremely exhausting.

I normally write encouraging posts about how to support your friends with mental health issues. Today I’m speaking to those that see first hand the manic moments.

Looking at someone mentally beaten. Talking to someone after they’ve been up all night. Listening to the exhaustion of fear-filled sobs…

This post is for the friends and family that live through the chaos of their loved ones manic moment.

Thank you.

Thank you for your prayers because there’s literally nothing else you can do.

Thank you for driving to the hospital.

Thank you for holding a trembling hand.

Thank you for excusing the rambling text messages.

Thank you for forgiving the words said in anger and shame.

Thank you for listening to the irrational voice.

Thank you for the reminder that this moment will pass.

Thank you for choosing to stay. Thank you for choosing to forgive. Thank you for choosing to love.

Thank you for fighting with us.

No one truly knows the strengths that you possess. No one really understands the emotions you experience. No one will ever be able to repay you for those hours.

Thank you.