When people think of October, they think of the fall. They think of Pumpkin Spice everywhere and Halloween costumes. But there is another side to this month. The days are getting shorter. The temperatures are dropping. People are staying indoors more. People are starting to feel the pressures of companionship or their lack of community because the bigger holidays are approaching. “Cuffing Season” is a testament to that.
So, October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month and National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month makes a lot of sense when you consider these things. The first week of October is Mental Illness Awareness week, too.
To me, that feels like a loud call to tackle some deeper topics. And that is exactly what I plan to do.
The theme for this month is: Conquer and Comfort.
We will be combating these dark and cold months by first sorting through some of our trauma and recognizing our strengths. This month I will be exploring the journal prompts below with you all and some amazing guests. We even have an extra Thursday this week.
It's Cuffing Season, so let’s get cozy and close to our journals as we acknowledge our battle scars, speak our truths, and armor ourselves.
For Everyone:
How are you making your mind a safe space?
How are you reclaiming your time?
Write a letter to your younger self
For Survivors:
What did you learn from your experience?
Write a letter to your abuser
What do you wish more people understood about mental illness/domestic violence?
I wanted to make this season a warm blanket during what is often the darkest time of the year for many people. After a lot of thought, I felt highlighting our power and growth was the best way to start.
Now I do need to say this: Verbal Tea is a beautiful community and journaling is a wonderful tool. There is so much information available that highlights its benefits for people. However, it is only a piece of the puzzle and is not an alternative to therapy with a licensed professional. Remember, we journal to be fairer to ourselves which helps us be better to others. Don't be surprised if you discover there are some other tools you can use to grow alongside journaling.
Season three starts October 3rd, if you want to see it live! I am going to be working hard to best show up and support you Tea Lights this season on all of our platforms. So make us part of your scrolling routine and follow us on TikTok and YouTube. As always, spend intentional alone time with your thoughts and focus on thriving instead of surviving.