Before Overt:
I am currently a full-time student in college. I work part-time for a local engineering firm to earn a little money. My wife works full-time to cover our expenses while I finish up school. She has had a difficult time finding a job that pays well because she did not graduate high school.
I have never been treated for anxiety or depression before, and have never gone to therapy, but about 3 months ago I decided it would be good for me since I have been feeling anxiety, nervousness, helplessness, and have had trouble sleeping. The Overt foundation presented itself as a much needed option for me and my family.
During Overt:
In my most recent session with my therapist, we talked about the importance of journaling, and how that can help increase my level of awareness on a day-to-day basis. I believe that by completing this weekly check-in with Overt, I will accomplish this. I look forward to addressing some of the emotions that I experienced with my therapist. I have come to realize one of the major objectives of therapy is simply to identify and accept our emotions.
In my most recent session, we explored an acronym that can be employed in effective communication. As I began therapy, I was most interested in learning new “tools” that would assist me to communicate with more compassion towards my spouse, and I feel like this acronym is just another tool that I can add to my quiver.
I talked with my therapist about how I typically cope with stress and anxiety. I told her that in the past, I have mostly gravitated towards fitness and exercise in various forms – running, climbing, etc. I consider those activities to be “meditative”, and described them as such to her. Because I am having a difficult time exercising because of other responsibilities right now, she recommended I meditate. We then went through a guided meditation and it was extremely beneficial to have someone to discuss the experience with.
After Overt:
Through my experience, I have learned tools that I can utilize to listen, validate, and achieve a greater sense of accountability and understanding in my interpersonal relationships. By implementing these tools, I have discovered greater fulfillment and value in said relationships, especially with my spouse.
I have learned to have compassion for myself and others. While there is ALWAYS so much to be grateful for, it does not mean that there will not be obstacles in life’s path. I am grateful to have learned to validate myself, and those around me, and to use validation as a tool to express compassion.