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Hey hey, welcome to Episode 26! I know I kinda ghosted last week—life happened. So today I’m back to catch you up on everything: my health stuff, some deep thoughts on friendships, and yep… 20 years of marriage while juggling PTSD. Wild ride.

Here’s what’s on my mind:

- First off, those weird tingles I’ve been getting? Turns out it’s anxiety, not anything neurological. Saw the neurologist, got the all-clear.

- Still off antidepressants and doing okay—just staying super aware of how I’m feeling and watching for any red flags.

- Oh, and my bestie Taylor Swift got engaged!! I mean, not technically my bestie, but... Absolutely. Congrats, queen 💍✨

Also, I’ve been thinking about something she said—about treating your energy like a luxury item. Not everyone can afford it, and that’s okay.

- It’s so important to notice when we’re in one-sided relationships. Effort should go both ways, right?

- So I’m asking you to take a sec and think: who are you spending your luxury energy on? Do they really deserve it?

- Alicia Keys’ “Brand New Me” has been on repeat lately—such a vibe. Friendships evolve, and that’s part of growing. It's also this week's song of the week.

And yeah, 20 years of marriage. There were times it felt like we were just roommates but he’s my person. We’ve been through it all, and I still love him like crazy. He’s got my back, always.

So, be gentle with yourself this week. And remember: the people around you? They’re your planets. Orbit wisely 🌍💫

Song of the Week:

https://youtu.be/wOSv1TIa58M?si=ZL-K2MGOKmJVLQeX

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Back home after hospital, I'm navigating my emotional landscape while balancing adventures with the need for self-care. My journey includes attending a friend's funeral and weekend trips that have taught me about finding joy amid healing.

• Attended a beautiful beachside funeral for a hospital friend, complete with meaningful music (Broken Halos and Luke Combs)
• Still working through feelings of shame around crying despite knowing tears are healthy
• Weekend trip to Canberra featuring pickleball, electric scooter adventures, and a comedy show
• Discovered new purpose in developing "resilience speaking" presentations
• Finding balance between rest and experiences while recently off medication
• Upcoming neurologist appointment to discuss potential TMS treatment

Thanks for tuning in to Mad Mel's Mic. I'm Melissa Smith and I hope you've enjoyed listening. You can find me on Facebook and Instagram and don't forget to like and follow. Have a great week and don't forget to be kind to yourself.

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Melissa sits down with her 15-year-old son to discuss how her PTSD diagnosis has impacted him over the past four years, revealing surprising insights about family resilience and emotional growth.

• Son shares his experience growing up with a mother diagnosed with PTSD when he was 11
• The practical impacts of PTSD on family life, including hospital stays and household management
• How Melissa's mental health journey has helped her son develop greater emotional intelligence
• Son's surprisingly matter-of-fact approach to explaining his mother's condition to friends
• The visible differences son notices in Melissa's wellbeing after hospital treatment
• Simple but profound advice for supporting family members with PTSD: "give them a hug, sit with them, tell them you love them"
• Thought of the week: "The way we communicate with others and ourselves ultimately determines our quality of life"

Find me on Facebook and Instagram and don't forget to like and follow. Have a great week and don't forget to be kind to yourself.