How to stop an Anxiety attack with the help of Steemit - or I HATE SUNDAYS

in life •  7 years ago  (edited)

Hello y'all and be prepared for a different post of mine this time...See it like a diary or something... I rarely do that on social media (at least not anymore) but I felt the need to do it, now, on Steemit, because this anxiety has to stop... As some of you already know, I feel like 'home' in here, so I can open my heart without being scared.

For the sake of knowing me better, let me re-introduce myself! (I think it's the right time, right before the 6month mark...)
My name is Penelope, meanmommy33 - a nickname inspired by @creutzy who was playfully calling me that because of my mean reactions sometimes, plus my current age- or Photography Nomad [also on Instagram], or Penny D. Photo professionally (you can find me with this name on Facebook Pages, Twitter and Pinterest). Yes, I have a huge digital footprint by now... haha...

I am not going to say I was a troubled kid. Because that would be unfair to my lovely loving family. But I've been through stuff (family, health, death, finances...)- just like everybody else. Everyone has their own luggage to carry, past, present or future.
My father was a famous Greek photographer (www.dinosdiamantopoulos.com) and my mother a translator and interpreter at international organizations. So, I got both 'bugs' and became a translator first and then a photographer as well.
But since I was a kid, I was always involved in the arts in so many different ways.
I paint, I write poems and songs, I play the piano and I write a lot. Romantic soul and gypsy heart as I mention at my description here.

I grew up in Athens, where I studied Social Theology, then moved to Paris for 4 years to study Sociology minor History and then did a master's in Economics. Then, after a few back and forth(s) to Athens (and even though my mom still lived in Paris), I decided to move to Rome. Because I always wanted to live in Italy, at least for a bit, since I'm 4th generation Venetian -from Corfu- and speak Italian almost since birth. So there I stayed 3 years and studied Photography properly, since my father passed away and couldn't teach me anymore (even though he was begging me to for many years and I was saying no -typical teen brat....) In Rome though I got tired and I wanted to leave. I still miss the food, the people and the good weather, but I'm far calmer here in Copenhagen -smaller, cuter and calmer.

I've done many jobs here in Denmark, including or not including my skills - the best one being my love for languages. I speak Greek, English, French, Italian, Romanian, some Danish and Turkish, and now learning Chinese. Plus I've done Hebrew and Arabic at uni. I don't know if I'm staying or how long [already 3,5 years - my turning point...] but I love this city. Even the bikes, that I wasn't used to. And of course I met @creutzy here, my boyfriend and fellow Steemian who introduced me to Steemit and Cryptocurrencies, amazing photographer and rare person, with his high class studies, his impeccable English, his beautiful mind (ok I'm not going to go into silly romantic details like his 'beautiful green eyes' ...Oh wait, I just did :P ) with whom I traveled in so many places so far and we still have a long, incredible way to go!
I feel sad that he won't be able to join me in Lisbon. But I'll make sure to make video calls so he can meet every one of you!!! And of course, promote his photography - because, I studied and tried to be a proper photographer, but he seems a born talent so I wouldn't say I'm better in any way (well, 'cause I'm not :P )

Even though my Dad died on a Monday, I never hated Mondays. Because Mondays are a new start, always. That's why on Color Challenge they are RED. I always hated Sundays. This gray. Even when sunny, still gray in my heart. Maybe because it was when my Dad would drive me to my Mom's (my parents were divorced - thankfully no issues there though!), there around 4-5pm,it's the worst of times. This is one of those Sundays. The Sundays that I think 'what am I doing with my life? Who am I?' and all this stupid existential bullshit. Thinking about relationships, friendships... what did I do wrong...Why I don't have a proper full time job all theses years even though I try so hard...

I am a difficult person. I can't deny that. I can be arrogant, hurtful and obnoxious. I am jealous (poor @creutzy...), stubborn and sometimes a bit of a bitch. BUT I'm also very social, I love 'my people' with all my heart - meaning friends, family, boyfriend...I'm open as a book. Very straight and direct. I can't really be a diplomat. I get angry, or sad, or hormonal over nothing. But I'm not a bad person. I can be mean, yes, but who can't?! I am writing all this to avoid a panic attack right now. I am overwhelmed at this very moment, with family issues, financial situation (oh look! The sun just came out! This Steemit therapy works!!!!), job problems, misunderstandings with friends, having to move to a new apartment soon (accommodation in Copenhagen is a pain in the ass)...Sending applications, learning better Danish, Lisbon coming up, expenses, I feel like it's too much!! Good thing I started meditating lately - you actually always feel better when you just BREATHE... Yoga helps too by the way, 'cause it combines breathing and exercising...I might go for a run - oh, who am I kidding, I hate running. Maybe biking or swimming - much better ;)

Anyway, I know this is too long, I doubt most of you will read it, but I felt the need to do it. I wonder if any of you feels the same way and how often if so. I'd be happy to hear your inputs. I thought of it as necessary for Steemians to know me better :)
Enjoy your lives to the fullest and let small things go. I'm wishing you all a great Sunday - I already feel better. Sharing makes it better. No, I am not depressed. I don't know if I ever was, maybe in Rome. I used to be one of the most positive people I knew. And then life happened. But I'm not giving up - I'm still very young to do that!
My moto here is more current than ever Don't forget to smile !!!!

Yours truly ;)
Penelope

Just me...Photo taken by...who else...the one and only @creutzy!

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I read the whole damn thing. It's bold to place your heart out into the world, and scary, but it is also extremely therapeutic, because it allows you to examine your feelings more fully, and truly discover what makes you happy and what is detrimental to said happiness.

First, consider scrapping jealousy, it's useless, and only makes what you think is a bad situation worse. Try compassion instead. It's easier said then done, but with effort you can afford yourself a better perspective.

Second, don't worry about not being the best, who you think is the best has an idol, and his idol has an idol. As long as you put effort into your craft, you should be happy with the results as they stand on their own merit.

Third, STEEMFEST. I have a few friends that are going, however I made the discussion to stay home because it was not financially feasible to go. As I understand though, plenty of people found STEEMFEST 1 very rewarding, both socially and financially. So don't fret too much, it could still come out a win.

As for moving... I hate moving and can't blame you.

Best of luck. Breathe.

I agree with the scrapping jealousy @meanmommy33 as it really is a useless emotion (if it can be called an emotion). I think it is just a physical reaction to a perceived threat to the ego or something of the sort.

Welcome to steemit!
I know that steemit may seem very overwhelming to you right now but don't worry. There's a learning curve to everything so just be patient and you'll be churning out posts and becoming a part of something great in no time!
Also if there are any questions that you may have, you can reach me at http://steemit.chat . My username is the same over there, i.e., arthestically

Also do give this article a read as it has guides on how to get you started: https://steemit.com/welcome/@inquiringtimes/333-welcome-to-steemit-333

Have fun and I wish you LOADS of success on here! <3

@originalworks

Regards
@arthestically

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Hmmm....I wonder if you actually read even a bit of my post...I mean, I'm on Steemit since last May, I'm not actually new, I just wanted to re-introduce myself as I mention, in order to re-invent myself on Steemit ;)
Thanks for the offer to help though - I wish it would be handy!! Steem on!

Good post :D

Thank you, glad you liked it!

Sharing is the most important part of the healing process. I'm glad you decided to allow us in into your world. It's great you're staying positive and taking it day by day. Cheer up and stay happy!

Always staying positive!!! If not, we're all doomed!!! Thank you for reading, glad you liked it :)

Upvoted! Welcome to the steemit community. I hope you enjoy a lot!

haha thanks even though it is a late re-introduction of mine ;) I'm here for almost 6 months and it's awesome :D

I don t call it 'sunday mood' or 'monday mood'.. I call it the Fall mood. Every september me too I feel the same. It is not the kind of problems..everyone has different ones.
This too shall pass.. don t fight it and always keep yourself busy!

Problem is that for me it's not only every September, it's every god damn Sunday :/ But yeah, I never let it bring me down !!!!! Efxaristo ;)

Then try to make something with your free time.try not to think too much..

I'd give you a big hug if I could but for now I'll just make it virtual. I understand these kinds of days (although for me it's a Monday since I love Sundays, go figure! ) all too well and you're strategies to breathe, meditate, do some exercise and connect with other people are excellent! I usually have a good cry too which helps me immeasurably. Much love to you, I hope your day improved and by the time you read this it will be Monday and you'll have a brand new fresh day! xoxoxoxo

Haha I think you're the normal one who loves Sundays :D
Thank you for the virtual hug, I really needed it!!! <3
Yeah, I used to cry a lot, but lately I'm like 'you know what? no. Keep calm' -and somehow it works!!! (like with the coconut milk situation I told you haha) Thanks for the love - I never have enough :D :D :D

Well your experiences are quite intriguing, true realistic and quite beautiful to read, thank you for writting.
Keep steeming

Thank you @josediccus, they are all true that's why they sound real - because they totally are! :D Steem on!

You seem like a pretty "normal" woman (from my point of view at least :P )
Your life sounds really interesting and creative, just the fact that you got to live in so many countries and get into their culture and way of thinking must have been wonderful for broadening your horizons. I kind of envy that (but in a good way)!

Steem on and keep smiling my efxouli-lover ;)

You're point of view doesn't count efxoula girl, because I bet you're as beautifully strange as me haha :D :D :D
Yeah...broadening horizons...that I agree...if only I could find a way to broaden my wallet as well, after all those years of studies, of trying, of despairing, of moving around, or really trying to make it! :/ I'm 33 after all... But oh well...Maybe I'm asking for too much, or maybe I didn't try as much as I think I did. Point is...to stay positive! K ksana pros ti doksa trava k ola ta sxetika! :D <3

Oh money comes really hard for most people, so don't despair yourself!
And when you feel the negativity, act like an electron and flow towards the positive pole of the battery :P

awwwwwww <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 The first smile of the day this picture was, you should know that!!!!!! Thank you!!! (and download, to smile every day :D )

It is always nice to read your thoughts as there is always a mix of emotions and ideas that run through each article which gives it your personality no doubt.

Living in so many quite different places and being able to speak the local language must give you a unique view of people I think. Most never get that level of access across such a wide selection. It is pretty cool.

I think it is interesting the opportunities we pass up as children and how the 'haunt' us in our future lives. I wish I was old enough to learn from my grandfather but never had the chance.

Personally, over the last however many years , most of my anxiety has been financial which I think is a remnant from a no frills childhood. My only way to really cope is to make sure I work hard as it means that I am still willing and not ready to give in.

I don't know if that 'mix' you're saying is actually good (and not tiring for example) but I bet you're saying it as a good thing so I'll take it :D Thanks :)
You need to teach me some Finnish - that'd be awesome :D
Oh yeah...we were talking about that with a friend today. How life when we were children and/or parents' behavior might in the end define who we are...
My anxiety lately mostly comes from the fact that I'm unemployed, so it's also financial. With the pressure that I have to provide now for my family, on top of all. They were there when I needed them, always, so now it's my turn... but the unemployment benefit is not nearly enough for something like that :/

I read all, I love know you more, we all have our demons and we fight with them, which is really important !!! you are a book that causes you to read to spend the most intense milliseconds that you can have, thanks to @creutzy for having met you in steemit I admire both and what you two are, maybe because my dreams have always been to live like you do what an intelligent people, I hope you see the sunrise!! and I don´t say it literally or yes? but I wish you can solve everything, I can´t forget your post about happiness .. OMGod that freedom that u breathes transmit me a happy calm. att. Yu Sorry for my shitty english

You said the phrase: 'We all have our demons' - Exactly. As long as we understand that, for ourselves and others, then we'll appreciate more other people and realize that sometimes are problems might be to small comparing to someone else's. [ok, and sometimes not...]

Haha!!! That's how I call myself yes, an open book - sometimes it's not that good...Too much honesty unfortunately equals stupidity in my case :/

He...this post, about happiness...yes...I'm glad you liked it and you still remember about it... <3

This is it yes, hope for the sunrise - always! I know what you mean! We admire you too - and we think you are a very precious artist, and person for that matter! Your way on Steemit is long and full of happy surprises, no doubt!!!

Thanks for your constant support -and stop criticizing your English! Your English is great!!! :D

Lots of love !!!

Thanks Yes I´m always criticizing me :) thank u dear you always giving me booster and motivation I hope that you can go to Steemfest too you deserve that and more ^.^

I will go - and I will sure promote my favorite people - including you, and of course @creutzy who unfortunately can't join! :/ :D

Ohh thanks dear, :S I feel bad for @creutzy :S !!! and I wish you the best to both of you.

breathe. We have to remember to breathe. Oxygen is the most potent of remedies. I suffer from TMS and some anxiety as well and I HAVE to keep reminding myself. Breathe. Breathe. Let the thoughts go, just for a moment. Observe them as they are washed away in a flood of new breath. There is nothing outside of this moment. We are all whole and as one. Deepest Acceptance. And Breathe. This is the only way I will survive steemfest or my body gets over stimulated and I basically turn in to a knot. One day I hope my mind will be clear like a perfect sky

You are completely right -since I started meditating I saw that breathing is so simple yet the most important and helpful thing to do in cases like this!
You sound like a therapist yourself - and I'm saying as a compliment ;) :D We need to breathe together during SF because I feel the same way...
I wish that for you too because from you blog you seem like a beautifully strange person -just like me ;) And who wouldn't want to hang out with the king of the hippopotamus tree huh???? :D See you in Lisbon!!!

hooray! Its good to know I will have a breathing buddy! Perhaps we can take breather breaks? Im definitely no therapist but I have had to learn to look after myself.... the strangeness is just an unexpected side effect. The closer you inspect your life the weirder it gets! x

I think we'll probably need them yes :P haha!

I think we'll probably need them yes :P haha!

Hi i read your blog and its nice. Welcome to steemit and I'm Sakib from Bangladesh. I'm also new in steemit. I'm also vote and followed you. So can you please vote and follow me also ?? Best of luck.

Probably you didn't read anything because if you did you would have know that I am not actually that new -I'm just 're-introducing' myself to old and new followers... Welcome though and all the best in this platform, it's pretty cool! You need some more practice though about your approach... Good luck!

Probably you didn't read anything because if you did you would have know that I am not actually that new -I'm just 're-introducing' myself to old and new followers... Welcome though and all the best in this platform, it's pretty cool! You need some more practice though about your approach... Good luck!

Great post. Hi from India. I'm new to steemit and yours is the first post I read. I'm able to relate to what you're going through right now because I'm going through a similar phase. I'm in the field of making videos, and I figured that making more videos actually kept me happy. I should try yoga and meditation. For now, making more videos seems to be helping me a lot.

Yoga and meditation always helps and especially since you are from India, your culture helps even more I think !!! I don't know if it was a good or bad thing that mine was the first post you read haha but I am welcoming you to Steemit and wishing all the best here! It is an amazing platform, and I'm sure you will make the most of it! Oh, and it will help also psychologically for sure :D

Yoga and meditation always helps and especially since you are from India, your culture helps even more I think !!! I don't know if it was a good or bad thing that mine was the first post you read haha but I am welcoming you to Steemit and wishing all the best here! It is an amazing platform, and I'm sure you will make the most of it! Oh, and it will help also psychologically for sure :D