Taking Time Off To Grieve

a painting I made about light breaking through the darkness

“Trauma changes you at a cellular level.”  I’ve heard that expression many times at mental health conferences and brain science symposiums, but it wasn’t until the past few weeks that I fully understood the meaning.  Intellectually I understood what it meant, but now I know what it feels like.  I am going to take a few weeks off from advocacy work, blogging, and posting on social media to grieve a recent loss that I haven’t talked about yet.  I’m attending support groups and doing other things to take care of myself.  Maybe I’ll do some painting for the first time in almost two years?  I’m reading funny books and watching funny things–if you have any suggestions for funny books or funny shows on Netflix, I’ll take them!  Thank you for your patience during this stressful time.  Take care of yourself.

–Jessica Gimeno

JessicaGimeno

Hi there! I am a patient advocate, writer, and public speaker most well known for my TEDx Talk, “How to Get Stuff Done When You Are Depressed.” As someone who is juggling 5 illnesses: bipolar 2, myasthenia gravis, endometriosis, psoriasis, and asthma, I’m passionate about helping people who navigate life with both chronic physical & emotional pain. If you’re interested in hiring me to speak at your event, check out the CONTACT tab.

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