20/03/2022
DON'T TRUST THOSE DAYS
We all experience those days when we tend to question everything in our lives: our looks, jobs, relationships, prospects and achievements, sometimes our whole existence.
Winston Churchill attributed them to a "Black dog sitting on his lap".
Anyone can experience these days. Many of which occur in cycles that, however, for men, are not driven by specific hormonal changes, as women experience monthly.
One of my friends, who had severe psychological PMS symptoms which lasted half of her entire cycle, once said to me: "I don't know which part of my life is real: two weeks before my periods, when everything looks grey and every disappointment seems certain, or the two weeks following, when there are so many positives in my life; when I live on the bright side and wear clothes of various colours."
Which part of my life is real?
During those days it may seem that we're "close to the truth". Our achievements may seem pathetic and meaningless. Our friends may appear to be selfish and careless. We may notice the ugly side of everything in our lives.
This situation is quite common.
In my friend's severe case, specific medication was prescribed by her doctor to help keep her moods in balance.
For the majority of us, the visits of the "black dog" usually last a few days. Don't trust those days.
Recognise them. They will pass. It's not a good idea to confront your partner or your friend, trying to determine "what do you mean by that?" or "do you actually love me?".
It's not that your feelings and thoughts are not real and you should not experience them. Simply don't let them take over your life.
Think critically of those days in the same way you think critically of your life during those days. Employ your humour.
A few memes on the Internet could make you smile.
If you believe that your worries and concerns are not unreasonable then perhaps you should record them in your diary and review them in a few days' time.
As per one of my favourite sayings often ascribed to the political scientist and negotiator Henry Kissinger: Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they aren’t after you!
After a few days, your perspective is likely to shift. If the problem is still there you can address it more effectively.
“Reality is good sometimes for kicks but don’t let it get you down,” - the narrator of this quote is unknown.