My wife with bipolar disorder goes to the hospital weekly for counseling and meds. I asked about her recent counseling session, and it was interesting enough to write about.
*My wife doesn’t know about this site.
I’ve mentioned before that her current female doctor suits her personality, and it seems the doctor’s way of speaking has a unique style.
For example, my wife shared her reflections and self-evaluations about the past week’s events. The doctor responded with things like:
- “You’re so serious.”
- “You don’t need to come here to evaluate every little thing that happened.”
- “Just come talk like you would with a friend.”
This time, she did something called “annoyance practice.”
Basically, the doctor said my wife tends to hide her true feelings behind a smiling mask, and it’s become a habit. The practice is about showing her real emotions or mood on her face.
It’s true—my wife smiles to avoid worrying others, even when she’s struggling. It comes from her school days, her parents’ upbringing, and her personality. I’ve tried to help her change it, but it never worked.
During the session, she tried the “annoyance practice” but laughed and said she couldn’t do it.
Changing decades-long habits is tough for anyone. But maybe when she can show an “annoyed” face, it’ll mean she’s truly overcome this.
※本記事は個人のうつ病体験談です。体験内容はあくまで個人の体験であり、医療アドバイスではありません。専門的なアドバイスを希望する場合は医師へ相談を。
※This article is a personal depression story. The content is solely based on personal experience and is not medical advice. Consult a doctor for professional advice.