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click here to hear ENYA: Only If An open letter to family/loved ones
Dear Family/Loved Ones:
I am writing this letter to ask for your understanding, compassion, and patience. We have all just come through a difficult time with my mental illness. I have experienced it personally and you have struggled to deal with its effects while continuing to take care of yourself and our loved ones. It has not been easy for any of us. For this I thank you.
As a result of this experience, I am now exhausted, physically and mentally. Maybe I look alright on the outside, but inside I am hurting. I need time to get over what has happened to me. I need your help with food and shelter to help me recuperate. Please understand that even the least effort or stress may be overwhelming to me. I need to sleep a lot, and not do much at all. This may go on for some time, but it is what I need to do to "get over" what I have been through.
It may be hard for you to see me this way. You may feel it is your duty to help me "snap out of it." You may be wondering if I am using this as an excuse to be lazy. Please know that neither of these is true. Please be gentle with me. Give me the time and space I need to heal.
If you want to do something for me, here are things I would appreciate:
Learn about my illness. This IS an illness, like diabetes, but it affects my ability to think, feel and the way I behave. Just like a physical illness, it is not my fault. The effects of my illness may have been difficult for you to deal with. I am sorry if they have made your life harder. Learning about my illness and sharing with others who have been in your situation may help you understand and bring you hope and supporta. <fill in contact info for local educational resources here>
Help me find effective treatment. This take persistance and knowledge. In my present state, I may not have the energy to follow through myself. I may need you to advocate for me until we find people and medicines that really help. At the same time, I need you to protect me from abusive treatment, neglect and excessive medication.
The other thing you can do for me is to listen with an open heart and open mind. Don't try to give me advice or tell me what I "should" feel or do. Just listen and keep loving me while I work this out for myself. Your faith in me and your understanding during this time of rest and recuperation will help me feel confident to decide when I am ready to take the first step toward rebuilding my life and my identity.
Thank you for your support and understanding. They will help pave the way for my journey of recovery.
With thanks and hope.
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