Halfway There – Exercises in Self Care
Note: You will come across the word “book” or other things that seem like I am talking about a printed paper thing. This is because it started out as one.
About this book
I just want to make it very clear from the start that I am no psychologist, psychiatrist or any sort of doctor and do not claim to be. I am a person who is struggling with mental illness and chronic pain. So I am sharing what I learned, rather than the latest research or studies.
There are exercises in this book and sometimes I might say “I want you to…” or something like this. I do not threaten dire consequences if you do not do these things. I promise no happily ever after if you do. These are just suggestions that might help you a bit on your way.
There are also worksheets scattered through the book. You can copy them or fill them in right here or not do anything with them.
It is your book, after all.
Acknowledgments
Thank you for walking through these pages with me.
This is no acceptance speech for the Oscars, so I’ll keep the thanks to those who actively helped with this book, not everyone who helped me on this journey.
Tina Alba was so good as to read my first draft, and the second draft, and make a lot of helpful comments and additions.
Shawna Jacques volunteered to proofread, as neither me nor Tina are native speakers. She also helped to check the text for being inclusive. And coherent.
If I messed up anywhere, it was most likely just me.
I hope that somewhere, somehow this book makes someones life a little bit easier, if only by knowing that they are not alone.
Be kind.
There is only love.
Words, cover illustration, work sheets and layout:
Jela Schmidt, 2020
Table of Contents
Identify harmful mind sets and behaviors
Online bonus chapter: Dealing with guilt
Online bonus chapter: Why it is easier to help others
