Head Congestion

Who knew that recovering from a simple cold could feel so isolating?

There’s the obvious “take care of yourself” part for the physical symptoms, but I’ve been noticing the mental layer that comes with being unwell. This time, I reached for curiosity and discovered something deeper.

Old trauma around neglect and lack of empathy still surfaces when my body is vulnerable. It adds a kind of “head congestion” that has nothing to do with sinuses. Being in a relationship with someone who struggles to be present when I’m unwell can reach those same places.

The difference now is that I can see it happening.

I can take care of myself without letting someone else’s struggle take over my mind. His struggles are his to work through.

They may be hurtful.
But they do not control me.