Sometimes in life, we may find ourselves facing circumstances that are beyond our control. We may notice increases in anxiety, depression, and hopelessness as we try to make sense of our world. We can busy ourselves trying to “fix” the problem in an attempt to find some way to feel more settled in the chaos.
The tricky part is that often there isn’t a “fix” for things like chronic illness, job loss, grief, infertility, and many other life experiences. In these cases, we must adopt a different approach to the pain and inner conflict we feel. Trying to fix or control something that is out of our hands can often worsen feelings of panic and fear instead of providing relief.
Instead of seeking a way to “fix” the problem, we can learn to take good care of ourselves and offer ourselves compassion as we move THROUGH the struggle. Leaning on our communities and reminding ourselves that we’re only human and to feel is ok, helps us remember that seasons come and they go.
While there is no life free of struggle, we can be intentional about moving through it, together. We can work together as a community, with compassion and empathy for ourselves and others.
About Maxine Iida:
Maxine is a Resident and is passionate about working with folks struggling with their relationships with food and their bodies. She has experience offering individual counseling to teens and adults. She specializes in depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and family or relationship issues. Her experience also includes leading group therapy for teens and starting a women’s psychoeducational group to focus on self-esteem, body image, and health.