Discipline...WAHHH!

   Discipline: Not a fantastic word to hear all the time, huh?! Why? Because it means that we are stepping out of denial and willing to do whatever it takes to make a change. Discipline doesn't usually equal fun. It means that we have some work to do.
   With PCOS, it can get very discouraging when you feel you have tried everything and nothing has changed. But we have to remember disciplines close cousin: consistency. You know the saying, "Consistency is the key!" Easier said that done, huh?
   I think that everyone can say that they have an area in their lives where they could be more disciplined. With PCOS, we have no other choice. To be on top of the disorder and overcome it, we have to change our priorities and put our health and well-being first.
   In my opinion, there are three areas we need to be disciplined in with PCOS:
1.) Exercise: All the articles you read about PCOS stress the importance of exercise. Exercise can be a game changer for more than one reason. Not only do you feel incredible when you are done, but the physical benefits are countless. Exercise is a must. Words of encouragement: Don't get discouraged and start where you can.
2.) Diet: Because those of us with PCOS have a high chance of being or becoming diabetic, watching and/or monitoring the food we consume is essential. It's not good for us to be consuming much sugars and carbs. We need to remember that our food does not break down and process like others'.
3.) Stay in the know: When we stay in the know about PCOS, we stay our denial. It is super easy to slip back into the lazy zone and avoid dealing with the problem. We need to remember that we can't change the problem. Unfortunately, it's a reality. However, we can change the outcome. When we see our doctors regularly, we connect with a support group or even search for knowledge, we stay in the know and in reality. That is a must.
   I encourage you to make some goals of your own. What do you want to see different? Where do you feel you need to be disciplined? I also encourage you to connect with an accountability partner who will encourage and help you stay on track. And above all, don't give up.

   Today I was reminded of how much PCOS can effect a person. I sat as a friend shed tears and spilled her heart about how she was just told the news that she had PCOS. It is weird that I knew exactly what she was feeling; the disappointment, the guilt and stunning emotions are almost too much. I vowed to myself right there that I would continue this blog and continue writing my thoughts, my emotions, my heardships and my victories only to help others and be a small glimpose of hope in this dark battle.

   PCOS can be a hard pill to swallow. The inital blow of bad news can follow you day by day as you look at the scale and see no change. Or...PCOS can be a battle to win. PCOS can be just a test and challenge that we can come out winning in the end. Honestly, PCOS is going to be exactly what you make it. That is why it is important for us to not let it hold us in the darkness. A lot of women find themselves in depression, and 1.) not know how to get themselves out of it, and 2.) not know that PCOS has been behind their depression the whole time.

    Did you know that there are many women with PCOS that find themselves in some form of depression. In fact, http://pcos.about.com/od/whatispcos/a/depressionover.htm states:

"A study found that women with PCOS are more likely to develop depression

or depressive symptoms."

 The article goes on to explain that these depression spats has symptoms such as lack os sleep or excessive sleep, excessive increase in weight, hard time concentrating, and/or lack of  interest in sex.

One of the types of depression the site talks about makes a whole of sense to me personally. They call it Seasonal Affective Disorder. I remember when my husband and I first married, and it came winter time. He made a comment to me that I was like a hermit. He noticed me not want to do anything but stay inside and be in my pajamas all day. Ever since then, he says, "Oh great, winter is almost here."

   That is exactly what Seasonal Affective Disorder is. The website states:

"This is a depression which occurs at the same time each year. It typically begins in the fall or early winter, and ends by spring. Prevalence increases where seasonal changes become more extreme, causing theorists to hypothesize that amount of sunlight exposure may contribute to the disorder. Extreme fatigue, lack of energy and fatigue are typically experienced. "

Interesting, huh?! That is me to a "T".

   As we learn more about PCOS, we can together find ways to fight the battle. You know the saying, "With Knowledge comes Responsiblity." We are not only responsible to ourselves, but to also help others and give hope. I know I can't fight alone, so will you fight with me?