mental-health

World Mental Health Day: How Velcro Became My Secret Weapon Against Anxiety

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Anxiety is an annoying companion, sometimes turning everyday moments and simple tasks into huge challenges. Today is World Mental Health Day, it’s a reminder to reflect on our mental health journeys and the unique way we cope. For years, I struggled to manage my anxiety, logically knowing I wasn’t the only person dealing with it, but often feeling like I was the only one in the world with these feelings. It wasn’t until I discovered a small coping mechanism—a simple piece of Velcro—that I began to find comfort.

A Tactile Sensitivity

I always noticed that I had some kind of tactile sensitivity. As a little girl, I would rub my face against stuffed animals and run my fingers over rough surfaces like the seams of clothing. There was something comforting in those sensations, a way to soothe myself when the world felt overwhelming. This need for tactile interaction continued into adulthood, eventually leading me to the discovery of a new solution to add to my anxiety toolbox.

The Velcro Solution

I first realized that Velcro could be a cool solution when I was carrying a backpack one day and my fingers brushed against a piece of Velcro on its surface. I found a piece of adhesive type (hook side) of Velcro and folded it in half so I have a two sided piece to carry in my pocket. At first, carrying it in my pocket felt strange. I worried that others would judge me if they saw me fidgeting with it. Occasionally, I would drop it and I would feel such embarrassment. The fear of being noticed, of standing out for something I considered odd, made my anxiety even worse. Yet, the tactile sensation of pressing the Velcro into my fingertips provided a sense of relief. It was my little secret—a simple act that helped ground me when I felt unsteady.

A woman with blonde hair holding a piece of Velcro
My pocket sized Velcro

The Journey to Acceptance

For a long time, I thought I was weird for relying on this piece of looped fabric. I kept it hidden, ashamed of my need to fidget. But one day, during a routine check-up, I mustered the courage to confide in my doctor about my Velcro habit. To my surprise, she didn’t react with judgment or disbelief. Instead, she shared that many people use similar techniques to cope with anxiety. It was a lightbulb moment for me; I was not alone in my struggles.

This conversation opened the floodgates to a new understanding. It was no longer just a piece of looped fabric; I could now think of it a tool to control my anxiety.

Around 2017, fidget spinners and other sensory toys began to flood the market, I started to see a community forming around these coping mechanisms. I learned about others who carry small items like paper clips in their pockets, using them to fidget discreetly during stressful moments, such as when making speeches. Suddenly, I realized I wasn’t the only one seeking comfort in the tactile world. It felt liberating to realize that my method of managing anxiety was not just acceptable—it was normal.

Embracing Fidgeting

I still have a small sense of embarrassment around the Velcro in my pocket, but with this blog I’m hoping to let it go. I embrace it as a part of my daily routine. It’s a reminder that I have a strategy to manage my anxiety. My hope is that talking about it will become a way for others to share their own fidgeting habits, whether it’s squeezing a stress ball, a calm strip on your keyboard, or using a fidget cube. We must foster an environment of openness, making discussions about mental health less stigmatized and more relatable.

Final Thoughts

Please remember that anxiety can feel isolating, and everyone has their own methods of coping. Whether it’s Velcro, fidget spinners, paper clips, or something entirely different, these tools can provide comfort in times of stress. By sharing our experiences, we can create a supportive community where it’s okay to be different. So, if you find relief in a piece of Velcro or any other fidgeting tool, know that you’re not weird—you’re simply finding your path to calm in a chaotic world. So tell me below, how do you manage your anxiety?

This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on October 10, 2024.

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World Mental Health Day

As we recognize World Mental Health Day, it’s a poignant reminder of the importance of mental well-being in our lives. This year, I am recommitting to a campaign at GDIT that emphasizes the value of checking in on those around us. Whether it’s colleagues, loved ones, friends, or neighbors, a simple yet profound question can make all the difference: “How Are You, Really?”

You never know who may be struggling on any given day. By taking the time to ask and genuinely listen, we can create a supportive community where everyone feels valued and heard. So let’s #KeepAsking and stick around to listen to the response. Together, we can foster a culture of openness and compassion that truly makes an impact.

As we reflect on the significance of mental health, let’s remember that our small gestures can lead to significant changes in the lives of others. Let’s keep this conversation going and continue to check in on one another.

·      GDIT How Are You, Really? Resources

Articles about Touch and Anxiety:

Deep Pressure Therapy: A Promising Anxiety Treatment for Individuals With High Touch Comfort?, National Library of Medicine

How Your Sense of Touch Can Reduce Your Anxiety, University Hospitals

Sensory Tools for Adult Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide, Caregiving Network

Embracing the Joys and Challenges of Getting Older in the Workplace

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Bridging the Gap: Age, Relevance, and the Ever-Evolving Workplace

I want to dive into a topic that’s been on my mind lately: getting old! In my private life I always try to stay young at heart. Getting older in the workplace is a different story. I’ve always prided myself on being a high achiever—the one who could always be counted on to deliver exceptional results. As an internal communications person, I’ve witnessed the ups and downs of navigating a workplace where age can sometimes make you feel less contributory. I’ve noticed the dynamics around me shifting and the occasional awkwardness of trying to stay “cool.”

The Changing Tides of Contribution

You know, it’s funny how time flies. It feels like just yesterday I was the go-to person, blazing trails and achieving remarkable results. But as the years go by, I find myself facing a new reality. I’m still the same passionate individual, but my role is evolving, and so are my feelings of relevance. It’s not always easy to come to terms with the fact that I might not be the youngest or the trendiest person in the room anymore. It’s a transition from being the person who always had the answers to being the person who asks a lot of questions. And you know what? There’s beauty in that evolution. It’s about finding new ways to contribute, to inspire, and to ignite the potential in others.

Embracing the Awkward, Celebrating the Growth

One particularly amusing challenge is trying to use the latest slang. I mean, who doesn’t want to sprinkle their conversations with some cool lingo? But let’s be honest, attempting to keep up with the ever-evolving slang can sometimes lead to some awkward moments. I’ve had my fair share of younger colleagues laughing or telling me, “You’re trying too hard, don’t use that word!” It’s a gentle reminder that I’m not a teenager anymore, and that’s okay. (But hey, there are times when I want to “Slay!”😂)

But it got me thinking—why do we let age define our ability to connect? Sure, I might not always get the slang right, but it’s the effort to communicate and understand that counts. Let’s not forget, relevance isn’t just about keeping up with the latest terms; it’s about staying connected with each other’s worlds, no matter how different they may seem. Our approach may differ, but that doesn’t diminish our value and wisdom. In fact, embracing our years of experience while remaining open to continued learning from our younger peers can be an incredibly powerful combination. Yes, it can feel awkward when attempts to use current slang fall flat, or when conversations reveal gaps in our generational experiences. But isn’t there something wonderful about that awkwardness? It’s a sign of growth, of stepping out of our comfort zones, and of being open to learning from each other. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where generational fluency helps bridge understanding and fosters collaboration. 

Age Is Just a Number, Right?

Here’s something that’s been on everyone’s mind lately—the discussions about President Biden’s age and questions about competency. It’s a national conversation reflecting our own workplace realities. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about societal perceptions and the value we place on age versus ability. It’s a stark reminder of the need for generational fluency, the ability to appreciate, learn from, and leverage the strengths across different age groups.

Generational Fluency: The Key to Understanding

In a world that’s rapidly changing, how do we stay relevant? It’s not just about adapting to new trends; it’s about embracing a mindset of continuous learning. The wisdom of experience and the fresh perspectives of youth are not mutually exclusive; they are complementary forces that can drive innovation and understanding forward. This is where generational fluency becomes crucial. It’s about building bridges, fostering mutual respect, and recognizing that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

As we navigate these discussions, both within our workplace and in the broader societal context, let’s remember the importance of keeping an open mind. It’s on us to encourage open dialogue, promote cross-generational mentorship, and create platforms where everyone feels heard, regardless of age.

Generational fluency isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for our collective success. Let’s embrace the joys and challenges of getting older in the workplace. Let’s celebrate our expertise while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives. Together, we can create a workplace culture that values generational diversity. We can dismantle age-related biases, pave the way for a brighter future and build stronger, more cohesive teams.

Remember, age is just a number, and our experiences and knowledge are invaluable assets. Let’s continue to learn, grow, and inspire each other. And hey, if we stumble upon some new slang along the way, let’s not be afraid to give it a shot—it’s all part of the fun of staying relevant in an ever-changing world! 

Here’s to slaying in every sense of the word, no matter what year you were born in.

 This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on February 12, 2024

Related stories:

Overwhelming majority of Americans think Biden is too old for another term

Download – Intergenerational Fluency 101: A toolkit for leading across generations