A Christmas wish of hope for everyone with mental challenges
As Christmas lights twinkle and the world envelops itself in a festive atmosphere, a silent, unseen struggle rages in many of us. This letter is for you, the brave fighter of your own invisible war, who faces mental challenges every day.
The invisible battle, even during the holidays
Christmas time can be a time of contrasts: joy and pain, light and darkness. The phrase “you can only find light in the darkness” symbolises the idea that in times of difficulty or adversity, there are often opportunities for growth, insight, or hope. This philosophy emphasizes that difficult or dark times have the potential to lead us to positive change or enlightenment. In the shadows of the festivities, your inner struggle may seem more intense. But in the midst of these complex emotions, I want to send you a Christmas wish, a wish of hope and strength.
Seek support
Whether it's with friends, family, or professionals, sometimes we just can't do it alone. Seeking support isn't a sign of failure; it's an act of courage. It's okay not to be strong all the time; it's okay to ask for help. You may be doing yourself a disservice. Maybe all you need is a direction. You may be able to get that from books, or from a good conversation with someone who has already been where you are today. So you may not need an entire process, but you at least consider yourself important enough to do this for yourself.
A light of hope and warmth
I hope this Christmas is a new beginning for you, full of insights and valuable learning opportunities. A gentle reminder that you are not alone in your struggle. That you may remind yourself of the love and support that is always around you, even if it is sometimes not visible. Giving love and support to yourself is also an immeasurable addition, which is still underestimated. Be good and kind to yourself, even if you may think otherwise. Anything that may be bothering you inwardly is something you've probably not consciously done, so you can sincerely forgive yourself for it. When you sincerely forgive, you're going to feel this.
A message of hope
This is a message of hope for you. Hope there will be better days. Hope that your struggle will be acknowledged and understood. Hope the shadows will make way for sunlight. And until then, remember that your journey matters, that your struggle matters, and most importantly, that you matter.
The Power of Vulnerability
In this time of being together, I encourage you to embrace your vulnerability and show it to your loved ones and to yourself as a source of strength. Know that sharing your story not only helps you, but that you are also a light for others who are walking the same path. Stick to people who are further along in this than you, and those who are less advanced, so that you can help those people again later. Sometimes you don't understand why something happened to you, but if, for example, you're allowed to help your child with this later, it's not for nothing, and you'll be thankful for it.
Every small step, a celebration
Remind yourself that every step you take, no matter how small, is a reason to celebrate. Sometimes, weeks later, people forget what steps they took or overcame. When you realize that, it becomes more tangible. Every step means you don't give up and find your life serious and valuable enough. Your courage to get up every day, to keep going, even in the most difficult times, is a strength that should be celebrated.
Support and solidarity
This Christmas, I want to remind you that seeking support is a sign of courage, an act of self-care. So you will find the strength to seek the help you need and to know that you are not alone in doing so. And that your loved ones are often happy to support you. The negative image often comes from within yourself, and that negative self-image causes a lot of damage. From today, try to say something sweet to yourself in front of the mirror every day, and be sincere about it. After all, words are more powerful than you think.
Strong in love together
Let's use this Christmas season to support each other, to offer hope where it's needed, and to spread love in all corners. You are an indispensable part of this world, your struggle, your story, and your life matter.
With all the love and solidarity this Christmas.