May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it hits a little differently this year. As many of you know, I’m a breast cancer survivor, and chemo, while a major fighter on my team, has brought along some unwelcome companions – anxiety and emotional fluctuations. It turns out the medications that help manage some side effects can come with their own set of challenges. I wanted to share a little about what I’m doing to navigate the emotional rollercoaster that often comes hand-in-hand with treatment. It might not be a cure-all, but it’s a start – a 100-day gratitude challenge, which I’m sharing in my IG Stories.

Here’s the thing: cancer is all-consuming. It takes over your body, your thoughts, your entire life. And while the physical fight is brutal, the mental and emotional toll can be just as tough.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m eternally grateful for modern medicine and the chance it’s giving me. But navigating this new reality – a body in flux and a mind wrestling with its own chemistry – has been a rollercoaster.

Maybe you can relate. Maybe you’re going through your own medical battles, or perhaps you’re struggling with unrelated anxieties or emotional upheavals. Whatever your storm may be, know this: you’re not alone.

Why Gratitude?

Let’s face it, right now, some days just stink. The fatigue, aches, and emotional rollercoaster can be overwhelming. But focusing solely on the negative can be a recipe for despair. Gratitude, on the other hand, shifts our perspective. It reminds us of the good things, the little joys still there, even amidst the storm.

Science backs this up, too. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can positively impact our mental and emotional well-being. It can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve mood and sleep quality
• Increase feelings of happiness and optimism
• Strengthen our relationships

Taking the 100-Day Challenge

So, here’s the plan: For the next 100 days, I’m committing to focusing on what I’m grateful for. Every day, I’ll take a moment, big or small, to acknowledge something positive in my life. It could be anything—a beautiful sunrise, grocery store deliveries, a supportive friend’s text, or the delicious taste of my favorite tea.

There’s no right or wrong way to do this challenge. You can keep a gratitude journal, post a daily social media story (follow along on mine @feliciareedphotography), or simply take a mental note throughout the day.

Beyond Gratitude: Other Steps We Can Take

Gratitude is a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic bullet. Here are some other steps you can take to manage your mental and emotional well-being during treatment:

• Talk to your doctor. Be open about your anxieties and emotional struggles. Your doctor can offer support, resources, and, potentially, medication adjustments.
• Connect with others: Don’t isolate yourself. Talk to friends, family, or a support group. Sharing your experiences can be incredibly helpful.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy, even just a few minutes a day. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise (as much as you’re able).

Finding Strength Together

The journey following cancer treatment is unlike anything I’ve ever faced. But here’s the surprising thing: it’s also opened my eyes to a strength I never knew I had. And it’s shown me the incredible power of gratitude and human connection.

So, if you’re facing your own storm, big or small, join me on this journey. Let’s focus on the good, share our struggles, and find a little peace together. Tag me on social media @feliciareedphotography and use the hashtag #100DaysofGratitude.

Remember, you are not alone. We can weather this storm together.