Need to Laugh?

 Pogo 1950s

Walt Kelly, cartoonist

Recently at my 6-month checkup with my primary doctor, I was asked to fill out several forms: alcohol, drug, and depression screens. Two were quick and easy: I do not drink and I take only drugs as prescribed. However, the voices in my head argued about how truthful to be on the depression screen. 

I am feeling down and I am very irritable. BUT I am not taking my medications. Do I 'fess-up? I noted my feelings, but I didn't place them high on the 1-10 scale. Thus the doctor did not ask about my depression.

Depression is not new to me. It began in my teen years related to my dysfunctional home life. 

In 1959, a friend gave me this Pogo figurine saying hope and happiness are always nearby, even when not easily seen. 62 years later Pogo and his bluebird of happiness sits on my tree shelf as an ongoing reminder of a caring friend and proven truth.

Prior to retirement, I was a Mental Health Case Manager for Medicaid. I was also certified in gerontology with expertise in geriatric psychology. Today I do not need a therapist to tell me I need to laugh! I need to stop having Pitiful Pearl Parties. I need to stop being the victim. And I need to take my medications because they are effective.

In the 1990s, I read several books by Barbara Johnson Through humor she addresses issues of life still prevalent today. I recommend all of her books. My favorite though is Pack Up Your Gloomees... and Laugh. [I have attended one of her presentations. She's as funny in person as she writes.]

[See previous posts dates 7/14/2016 & 8/2/2016.] 

COVID-19 is not causing my emotional distress. It is just the erratic season change and lack of energy-related to my chronic illnesses.

I am doing things that are pleasurable; e.g., coloring cards for birthdays, and Father's Day; and knitting. Scanning Reader's Digest also perks me up with their jokes and happy stories. Sudoku puzzles, reading, writing and studying Hagar, the slave girl in Genesis 15-21 keep me feeling productive.

Looking through some old photos and sharing their stories with my caregivers has brought smiles to both our faces.

The bonus was a surprise. My 15-year-old granddaughter brought laughter and great pride to my home via YouTube. She performed in two interpretive modern dances and was the mother in the high school play, "Little Women." She is very talented. Both were great!

Join me and...

Selah...

Connie