Let's talk life

Dear Counsellor,

I find myself getting worried all the time. I also get anxious sometimes. I would like some tips on self-care.

- Maxine

Dear Maxine,

Self-care is essential for everybody. The only person who has your interest at heart is you. You need to be able to take care of yourself so that you can take care of others.

The main point of self-care is your relationship with God. You need to work on that issue. You need to show sympathy and empathy to yourself. You need to show compassion to self. As humans, you make mistakes or do things that you should not do. You need to forgive yourself for the wrongs that you have done. Some people punish themselves rather harshly and feel so guilty that they hurt themselves.

Forgiveness is important, and sometimes you will have to make restitution to others. Why worry when you can pray. Life is full of problems and we need coping skills. The future is unknown, but it could be good or bad. If the future is bad, then worrying is not going to help. When you get negative, have a word that you keep saying in your mind.

Accept your flaws and tolerate your memory dysfunction. You have been given a task to take care of yourself and you need to do it well. If you need a coach to help you, then go and see a therapist.

_______________________________

Suffering from insomnia

Dear Counsellor,

I have sleep problems. I cannot focus or concentrate and I have difficulty sleeping at nights.

- Norman

Dear Norman,

Sleep is essential and you need to feel refreshed and energised. Lack of adequate sleep will cause you to feel tired and restless.

Make sure your bed is comfortable. Are you passing urine often at nights? Do you snore? Do you have a medical illness? When was the last time that you got a physical check-up? Are you worried or anxious about something? Are you depressed or nervous?

See your doctor for a check-up.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.