If we are honest, each of us deals with emotional or mental upheaval from time to time. Most of us have had stretches of sadness or depression. Sometimes our joy or excitement borders on euphoria. When we are tired or under a lot of stress, our thoughts can get jumbled or confused. These episodes are a normal part of being human. Over time we learn to moderate extreme moods or understand that “this, too, shall pass.”
For members of the Well Community such mood swings are often severe and perpetual. Their experiences don’t go away after a good nap or a long walk. They face unpredictable emotional instability every day throughout the years. Medications and good habits certainly help, but nothing cures.
For most, our members have learned to accept their struggles as a part of their “normal” life. Their illnesses don’t define who they are but certainly impact how they live.
That’s why the Well is so important to our members. No matter what mental challenge they face, they are welcomed. Despite being very “down” or too “up,” they are accepted. When their words don’t make sense to others, when they can’t stop pacing, at the Well they are met with compassion and companionship. As many members have said to me over the years, “Here, I can just be myself.”