Mental illness makes life difficult. We might find that even when things are okay, inertia and dullness keep creeping in. Dullness is a fogginess, a slowing that makes it seem that we are unable to feel or think well enough or flexibly. This can be as hard to bear as the more acute symptoms of the illness itself.
Perhaps, what we ought to remember is that the more we try to control what is happening, the more we will be distressed. Letting mental events unfold and evolve on their own is wiser than always attempting to modify how we are thinking and feeling. No matter how severe our condition, the brain and mind have immense capacity. And when we respect that things can go wrong without too much struggle, we find that we can recover from mental illness and its effects on our life.
With acceptance and patience come the capacity to successfully negotiate the difficulties of our condition. While it is proper to try and do as much as possible to get better, letting go of control and desires also have their importance. When there is dullness, we could choose to view it as an opportunity to rest and not try to do too much.
Whatever arises, ends and our attempts to keep on trying to intervene can be counterproductive. Recovery from mental illness is facilitated by a readiness to work with whatever we get. That way, we get more efficient and more proficient in managing well even when things go wrong. Apart from medications or therapy, spending time quietly, without engaging in too many activities can be both enjoyable and very helpful.
If you would like to discuss how to deal with the complications arising from your illness and find ways to recover well, please click on the scheduling link on this page.
