The first hot day of the year was a few days ago. I stepped outside with my two boys and felt the warm sun on my face. It was lovely. As we continued to play outside, that pleasant feeling was eventually replaced with tightness in my chest, difficulty breathing, sweating, and sluggishness. Heat has always been hard for me. Without warning these physical symptoms that the warm weather brought, were joined by unwanted memories, worry, and fear.

As I took a seat on the ground, I recognized this feeling as an anxiety attack. I continued to gaze over at my kids embracing this warm day and I used the skills that I have learned and developed over the years. I began taking some deep grounding breaths, noticing the sturdy ground beneath me, and reminding myself that I am safe and secure. The feelings of fear and anxiety pass quickly this time and I reflect on the physical changes that just occurred in my body.

As I continue to learn about my own mental illness, I am realizing the importance of insight and education. Learning more about the how and why can have a significant impact on recovery and coping. Summer and hot weather can trigger those anxiety symptoms and build into an anxiety attack. Without insight, that feeling of impending danger may stick around longer.

A new term for us at Hope in a Hopeless World is “Anosognosia” meaning experience of “‘lack of insight’ or ‘lack of awareness,'” (NAMI, 2021). We may all experience this symptom from time to time and the severity may vary depending on the person or illness. Taking some time to learn about our body, our reactions, and our illnesses, can be an important part of effective management.

Consider these reflective questions:

1. Where do I feel discomfort in my body?
2. What is my body telling me?
3. What are my next steps?

For me, journaling, prayer, self-reflection, breathing exercises, yoga, medication, and therapy have been helpful in my journey.

You are not alone in this! There is hope <3

Author: Crystal