I am writing this blog post with teeth whitening strips on my teeth. I reckon if my inner body parts won’t play ball, I may as well make the most of the parts I can control. Psychological warfare against an ill body is incredibly important, almost as much as medication. When a person gives up psychologically, a very ill person often gets more ill.
The waiting and uncertainty are the worst. I had a malignant polyp removed from my colon 6 weeks ago and I am waiting for surgery to remove part of my colon. Hopefully within the next 2 weeks. Can’t wait for it to be over.
I don’t yet know if the cancer has spread or whether the surgery will be all that is needed. The anticipation is often the worse and I have let my negative thoughts get the better of me. I have catastrophised, predicted the future and thought about the worst case scenarios without any real evidence. Self torture – we all seem to do it but it is so unhelpful.
Still, a little self maintenance can go a long way to restoring some faith and positive feelings. Look after yourself, take a shower and put some make up on. Getting dressed can help psychologically too as it is common to let ourselves go, not wash or get our of pyjamas when we feel low.
One day at a time and do something (at least one thing) that makes you feel valued each day. Here’s to a ‘well looked after’ you.
Mandy X
Photo by iltopomuschiato 
Photo by www.homejobsbymom.com
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
