Compassion is the feeling that we experience when we are confronted by the suffering of another and motivated to relieve that suffering. Though related to altruism, it isn’t the same thing. Altruism is a selfless concern, although both concepts are certainly intertwined. Compassion often gets confused with sympathy or even empathy. Whilst sympathy says, ‘I care’ and empathy strives to ‘feel’, compassion works towards ‘alleviating’ the suffering of another.

Balance, like the great philosopher Aristotle has said, is finding the middle ground – the golden mane between two extremities. The idea sounds simple and yet unlike many of the simplest things in life, finding balance can be the hardest.

Grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference. When I first discovered acceptance it was a novel concept. I thought: what do you mean accept? Unconditionally? Completely? Good stuff and bad, without a fight??

Who are you calling mad? Me? Yes me! Well, maybe I am! The thing is that mental health exists on a spectrum just like physical health, so what we invest in our mental health can make a real difference on the days we practice self care and self compassion. The days that are all too much will pass too. We know this because they do… every time!