If you have ADHD and you’ve ever been told you’re “too sensitive,” “overreacting,” or that you “take things too personally,” there’s a neurological reason this might be happening — and it’s not a character flaw.

Seasonal depression, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a real and valid mental health experience. And even when symptoms don’t meet full diagnostic criteria, seasonal shifts can still significantly affect emotional well-being.

Healing is often described as progress: forward movement, growth, resolution. But real healing is rarely linear. It doesn’t move in a straight line or follow a predictable schedule. There are pauses. There are setbacks. There are moments when old pain resurfaces even after long periods of feeling okay.

Most people associate grief with death. However, many individuals begin grieving long before a loved one actually dies—particularly in the context of terminal illness, chronic disease, dementia, or progressive medical decline. This experience is known as anticipatory grief, and it is a recognized and normal psychological response to impending loss.

Have you ever noticed yourself reacting the same way in different situations, even when you know it isn’t helpful? Maybe you expect rejection, feel “not enough” no matter how hard you try, or shut down when things get emotionally close.