Helping Hand Psychotherapy

My take on one of the most impactful Netflix series I have ever seen. Read the rest of the post on my blog (see link to website in bio). 🤍

Lessons learned, insights gained, thoughts gathered, and words written after being away from this page for the past six months. 🍃🫶🏽

So THIS is why you don’t have to just get over it… and feel free to kick anyone that tells you otherwise in the face (just kidding 😅).

But real talk… what a lot of people don’t fully understand is that trauma; big or small affects the brain, particularly the amygdala and hippocampus. The amygdala triggers a "fight or flight" response, while the hippocampus is involved in memory processing. Overcoming trauma is complex because it involves rewiring these neural pathways, and support and time are crucial for healing. Don’t give in to the false narrative that any of this is supposed to happen overnight. 🫶🏽

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#2024

Lately, I've been on a journey of discovering a new kind of presence in my relationships— one that doesn't rely solely on physical energy. It's an understanding that even when my body feels drained, I can still be there for the people I care about in meaningful ways. It's about being tuned in to the feelings of others and sharing my own, even if I can't summon the energy for grand gestures. A simple, genuine "How are you feeling today?" or "I appreciate you" speaks volumes, by creating a bridge between us even when I'm physically low on fuel. It's about understanding my own limits and acknowledging that my capacity for physical energy fluctuates— and that's perfectly okay. It is part of being human. But, letting people know where I'm at physically and emotionally is on me. It's better to say, "I'm not feeling my best today, but I'm still here for you in whatever way I can be” rather than assuming they will just understand.

Remember that relationships are precious. Treat them like the best thing that exists, and then they will be. 🫶🏽

There’s no point if nobody is watching.

What’s the point if nobody is there to see it.

It only counts if they say it does.

I can get away with it this time.

^

Stop. Statements like these are compelling but they are delaying you from progressing. Do not let them stop you from doing what you need to for YOURSELF. You are the only audience that matters.

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♥️

An existential crisis that a lot of you might be able to relate to.

While I can't change the circumstances of my birth, I can choose how to use the privileges I have. Maybe it's about amplifying the voices of those who aren't heard. Perhaps it's about lending a helping hand where I can, whether it's through volunteering, donations, or just being there for someone in need.
The world's suffering is vast, and I'm but one person. I can't fix everything, and it's overwhelming to think about trying. But I can make a difference, even if it's a small one. I can ensure that my gratitude isn't passive but is coupled with action and empathy. In this way, I hope to reconcile the privilege I feel with the gratitude I hold, making both meaningful in the context of the wider world.

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It’s true, though.

You ARE pretty. You ARE handsome.
Your smile DOES light up the room.
People DO care for your presence.
They look forward to seeing YOU.
Your opinion IS important.

The world wouldn’t be the same without you.

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Being in a relationship – whether it's friendship, love, or family – carries with it an unspoken promise, a sacred commitment. It demands that we show up, not just physically but emotionally. I get it, sometimes we are tired or frustrated with life’s many demands but those who show up for us unconditionally still deserve to feel invigorated, cherished, and uplifted by the interactions we share. Thus, if we find ourselves being the energy-drainers, it's crucial, almost ethically binding, to introspect and adjust our behavior.

Relationships thrive on mutual respect, and part of that respect is recognizing and honoring the energy exchange between individuals. It's a dance of give and take, and we must ensure we're giving as much as we are taking.

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