[tinsnip]

Trying to think up ways to explain Mental Health Stuff to my co-workers, who get it or want to get it, but are having a bit of trouble. 

I like this metaphor:

I’ve carried too much stress for too long, and I’ve sprained my brain. It took one bad day to do the big injury, but a lot of little stresses before then really didn’t help. I had a less-than-resilient brain to begin with. (Kind of like having weak ankles.)

“But so-and-so works the same hours and he’s fine.”

Yup. His brain is more resilient than mine is.

“So take a bit of time and then just go right back to those hours.”

Nope. I’ll just sprain my brain again. Gotta cut back.

“Okay, fewer hours. And more time off. So now that this is in place, you should be fine right away, right?”

Nope. Still have a sprained brain. That’s going to take time to heal. 

“But we love you and we’re all on your side! Why are you still anxious at work? Why are you still sad? Don’t you like working with us?”

I love working with you! I love my job! But I still have a sprained brain. That’s got to heal before I can get back to where I was. I’m so, so happy and thankful that everyone here is on board with helping me out. Now hang in there with me while I get better, and pretty soon things are going to be just like before. No: better, because when I’m smiling and laughing, I’ll really mean it.