Often panic comes suddenly. Something triggers it.
S o m e t h i n g h a p p e n s , a n d i t s n a p s o u t o f n o w h e r e . S u d de n
questions, strange looks, even just a stumble in walking.
Part of the problem is not enough support. No matter how
much effort is put in, someone needs to be there to help
through rough spots. Someone to hush shaken words and
h o l d t r e m b l i n g b o d i e s . S o m e o n e t o u n de r s t a n d .
Q u i e t w e e p i n g f r o m a c h i l d w h o s e e m s s o w e l l a da p t e d
that no one cares to see if they’re okay. It is assumed
they are.
Somehow, no one notices the tears and exhaustion.
Talk with those close. Some will mock. Some will hug.
Very few will understand and try to help.
U n d e r n e a t h i s s o r r o w . It i n f e c t s e v e r y w o r d, e v e r y
syllable said. It is a cry for help that they can’t seem to
hear.
Vent to the pillows. Scream into them. Wail. Cry. Then
hide it all when they are home again.
Watch social cues religiously. Do not change
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