Even with a population close to 8 billion, I sometimes wonder why millions of people feel lonely — struggling through everyday living all alone. There is stress at work, anxiety at home, and on top of everything, parenting. All small things add up, and one day, you break down, feel helpless, angry, sad, depressed, and lonely. But you are not alone. Look around yourself and think about all the people you know; each of us is going through anxiety and stress. The difference is how well we can manage it or use it to our advantage. I am not an expert on treating anxiety, but I can talk about some of my personal experiences and what I learned from them.

My life events might be categorized as harsh by many, and on the other hand, many would say I am privileged. And ironically, both are true. The very thought of being privileged than many people in the world is gratifying; it gives you a sense of assurance that I am doing better than many others even though I am not doing the best. I won’t go into the scientific reasons why your sense of gratification can play a significant role in mental health. But I have experienced the impact of gratification. First, my outlook changed, and then events around me changed, and I am always thankful for everything that happens.

Parenting is hard, and most parents try to do their best and want the best for their kids. But can cause a lot of mental stress in all stages of upbringing a child. I found that keeping the parenting stress to yourself does not help. Share and overshare your problems and issues with not just your friends, family (elders), and counseling, but share with your kids. I found my kids to be my best remedy, even when sometimes they are the cause of my grief. I share my feelings with my kids, why I feel stressed or anxious or sad (and also happy). The love they show heals half of the stress. One tight hug from your child is so powerful that no medicine can beat it. Sharing with them also helps them get closer to you and understand you better. I just want to add a caveat that how you share with them is very important. Sharing your feelings doesn’t mean you yell and tell them you are angry. Treat them as your friends, make conversations with them and hear what they have to say.

I will write few more tips that really helped me keep my stress level down in my next blog if I find people are interested.

Breathe! The best gift you have!