Family and Mental Health

The happy couple--Martin and Sylvia (my sis-in-law)--cutting their cake.

This is a tale involving a sweet sister-in-law.  It happened yesterday (Sunday, September 18, 2011).  Sylvia sat while her beau got down on bended knee and proposed.  I thought the story was over, but she presented him with a ring, too.  It was a wonderful moment!

After the sadness of my mother-in-law passing away, we needed a fresh start on life.  I had a feeling last week that something joyful would be happening soon.  Then, I received an invitation to Sylvia's engagement party.  I was a little nervous about the idea of seeing everyone I hadn't seen since seven months prior.

It was time to be there for my sister-in-law.

I mustered up the courage to personally RSVP for the event.  I reached out by making the phone call.  I hadn't done that in a long time.  I had recently been digging myself into a hole like a hermit.  I love my alone time, but like I've told my kids, there is a time for everything.

You must be asking yourselves, what does this have to do with medical and/or health issues?  Well, it has a lot to do with my mental health.  I needed to hang out with family.  I needed to hear the laughter.  I needed to give and receive a few hugs.

Sylvia with her brothers

Sylvia with one sister and sisters-in-law

That's what I love about my in-laws, the Villanuevas.  Even though we spend time apart, when we come together, it is like the separation falls away.  Everyone seems to set aside their quirks and bands together as a family should.  I must admit that the joking around made for a lot of belly laughs, and that's what I love to see--people enjoying themselves.

I received the blessing from the bride-to-be to share her special moment with my beloved readers.

If you want to see what I'm talking about, you are welcome to see the video we shot with our digital camera.  We didn't edit it so please forgive the amateurish attempt to capture the special moment.  It was just a spontaneous decision to record.  I wanted to make the video available for those who weren't able to attend, especially Sylvia's other sister.

Well, thanks for reading about my thoughts on mental health and hanging with family.  I hope this blog entry helps someone to understand the many facets affecting mental health.

How about you, my readers?  Have you visited with family recently?  Did you enjoy yourselves?  How did you feel after your visit?  I encourage you to consider hanging out with family, even if it is only for a few hours.  Refraining from hanging out with your family and friends can make one seem and feel anti-social.  You never know if your spirits might need reviving. 

If you need to improve your health, in any form, please ask God to help you; he will, if you pray for His guidance.

This is an entry for Medical Mondays.  For past entries, click here.

Disclaimer: The viewpoints that I discussed here are just my opinions.  Please consult your physician before altering anything relating to your health.  I am only suggesting here to take charge of your health.  Don't just leave your health in the hands of your doctors; become your own advocate.  You know best how your body is doing.