This word has been at the fore of my mind lately. Of course, it comes up a lot at work given that I’m an employment attorney and people are stressed out at work. But even more so lately, it’s been a major source of conversation at home.

Since our move, Lily, our dog, is suffering from some serious anxiety. She will not leave my side, she is fearful of almost everything and really has not slept much. We have gotten some great advice on how to help her manage the change. But her anxiety has affected all of us and it made me think about how anxiety in humans affects not just the individual but those that love the individual.

I’m sure some of you can relate to how I’m feeling with a dog who doesn’t want to leave my side. Remember when you were home all day with kids and as soon as your partner came home, you bolted (you literally could be walking out the door as you were already dressed and had your keys in your hand!)? Or when a walk through Target was a vacation? When getting gas and watching the TV above the pump was entertainment? I used to go through the car wash because it was so loud and drowned out the world!

Yesterday, my son came home for a bit and I begged him to watch her so I could run to the grocery store. When he texted me that he had to leave 35 minutes later, I almost cried! He knew I needed out so he stayed and was late to meet his friends — I shortened my trip and ran home. At that point I realized, Lily’s anxiety was not only affecting her, it was affecting all of us.

Poor pup. She slept for the first time today and frankly, it felt like heaven. I did laundry, I cleaned the floors, I organized my closet and I had a snack and a warm cup of coffee without our four legged fur baby at my feet looking up at me with those eyes! Tomorrow, I’m going to try to leave and walk around the block. Maybe I’ll even go get myself an Americano!

Lily will get through this, but not with out love and care from her humans. But in order for us to give her that love and care, we need to take care of ourselves. When I was fried from the move, I didn’t have a lot to give Lily. It probably affected her.

To my friends who are taking care of someone else (for whatever reason), PLEASE take time for you. It’s easy to forget and critically important to remember—you can only truly be there for others, if you are taking care of yourself. Even something like five minutes alone with a cup of coffee, or a call with a friend, can be enough to re-energize.

If any of you feel like taking a walk with me and Lily, let us know. If we’re busy, it’s because we’re taking care of ourselves and enjoying the outdoors!

XOXO

Jessica

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