Most of us feel a little crazy from
time to time. Periods of high stress can make us feel like we're losing
it, as can being surrounded by people whose values are very different
from our own. Losing a significant relationship and moving into a new
life situation are other events that can cause us to feel off-kilter.
Circumstances like these recur in our lives, and they naturally affect
our mental stability. The symptoms of our state of mind can range from
having no recollection of putting our car keys where we eventually find
them, to wondering if we're seeing things clearly when everyone around
us seems to be in denial of what's going on right in front of their
eyes. For most of us, the key to survival at times like these is to step
back, take a deep breath, and regain our composure. Then we can decide
what course of action to take.
Sometimes a time-out does the trick. We take a day off from whatever is
making us feel crazy and, like magic, we feel in our right mind again.
Talking to an objective friend can also help. We begin to see what it is
about the situation that destabilizes us, and we can make changes from
there. At other times, if the situation is particularly sticky, we may
need to seek professional help. Meeting with someone who understands the
way the human mind reacts to stress, loss, and difficulty can make us
feel less alone and more supported. A therapist or a spiritual counselor
can give us techniques that help bring us back to a sane state of mind
so that we can affect useful changes. They can also mirror our basic
goodness, helping us to see that we are actually okay.
The main purpose of the wake-up call that feeling crazy provides is to
let us know that something in our lives is out of balance. Confirm for
yourself that you are capable of creating a sane and peaceful reality
for yourself. Try to remember that most people have felt, at one time or
another, that they are losing it. You deserve a life that helps you
thrive. Try and take some steps today to help you achieve more balance
and a little less crazy. (Daily OM)