Everybody struggles at some point in their life- it is the price of being human and being allowed to experience joy and happiness. But we don’t have to struggle alone, and we don’t have to be afraid to own our insecurities and flaws. As a social worker by trade, I get to see every emotion on the human rainbow- anger, sadness, grief, rage, fear, joy, hope, humor, determination- and have to come up with plans on the fly to address the emotion and deal with the issue at hand. It’s a hard job, but it has taught me more confidence that I think I ever would’ve earned in an “normal” job. I have to show up and be the calm force in the room- I can’t break down or panic right then. But I do break down later- at home, safe and away from prying eyes. Everyone breaks down, and that is perfectly okay- there is nothing in this world that continues in perpetuity without some maintenance or effort. Cars require upkeep, illness requires medicine, and even century trees break down over time- your mind isn’t any different, and seeking “maintenance” for it should be just as normal as seeking an oil change!
Even though I (usually!) know how to handle a situation, the emotion of it still overwhelms me and I have to find ways to process outside emotion and regain my inner peace. That’s how we got to this point- I started collecting coping skills to deal with my anxiety and depression. First the basics— cooking, baking, reading, taking walks, talking to my support system. But as time changes, so must we! It developed into art projects, sewing, DIY kitchen ingredients, gardening, candle making, photography, wreath making, and macrame. Are they hobbies? Yes. Are they also coping skills? YES! And I’m happy being upfront about it. It’s more than past time to start owning up to everything- own up to our faults (no one is perfect), own up to our virtues (work really hard at being a force of good), and own up to the things we do in our lives that makes living worthwhile.
Coyote Mint Company is run by two people that both have struggled with mental health, and it’s important to us that we create a positive environment for everyone to be open and genuine. There are days that are amazing and days that are awful so we appreciate your support and patience. Be kind to each other, but most importantly be kind to yourselves!