The holiday season was in full swing, and I found myself reflecting on the journey that led me to create the Mental Health Warrior Program. This self-help approach was born from my 20-year struggle with Bipolar Disorder, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD. After years of feeling powerless, I reached a breaking point and tried to end my life. But with a second chance, I discovered that mental health is the key to triumphing over life's challenges. With this insight, I created the program to help myself and others take control of their emotions, build resilience, and overcome life’s obstacles.
As I was walking through the park, sipping my coffee, I spotted a familiar figure sitting on a bench. It couldn’t be… could it? There, in all his honey-colored glory, was Winnie the Pooh, scribbling furiously into a notebook.
"Pooh? Is that you?" I asked, completely bewildered. He looked up, his face lighting up with a smile. “Oh, hello there! Just working on a little something to share with my Mental Health Warrior friends for the holidays. Would you like to hear it?”
Now, who could say no to Winnie the Pooh offering to read a poem? I sat down next to him, and he cleared his throat in that unmistakable, endearing way of his.
Pooh's Poem
"A Mental Health Warrior’s Holiday Poem"
When snowflakes fall and holidays near,
It’s easy to lose the joy and cheer.
But a Mental Health Warrior takes control,
With tools and strength to keep us whole.
First, we start with a plan for the day,
So chaos and stress won’t lead us astray.
Tigger bounces, Piglet worries, Eeyore might sigh,
But together we’ll thrive; we’ll reach for the sky.
Next, we honor each feeling, big or small,
For sadness and joy—we’ve room for them all.
By naming emotions, we’re no longer afraid,
And the path to peace is beautifully laid.
Then, we take action; it’s how we grow,
A little step forward, steady and slow.
From baking cookies to trimming a tree,
Every action says, "I’m proud to be me."
Finally, we’ll lean on our tribe and our friends,
For support and laughter as the year ends.
We’re stronger together, this much is true,
A Warrior’s spirit shines bright through and through.
So here’s to the holidays, both merry and tough,
With tools in hand, we’re more than enough.
Be kind to yourself, embrace who you are,
A Mental Health Warrior’s light shines like a star!
The Mental Health Warrior Takeaways
When Pooh finished, I couldn’t help but clap. “Pooh, that’s amazing! It’s simple, heartfelt, and so practical.”
“Thank you,” Pooh said, looking a bit bashful. “I wrote it to remind myself and my friends that the holidays can be tricky, but we’re not alone. And to remind them that, as Mental Health Warriors, we take action and triumph over life’s challenges!”
Start with a Plan:
“You see,” Pooh began, “a plan helps us stay focused. Tigger might bounce too much, and Rabbit might overdo it, but if we’ve planned our day, we’re less likely to feel overwhelmed. It’s about setting small, manageable goals—like knowing when it’s time for honey or time for a nap.”
Honor Every Emotion:
“Piglet taught me this one,” Pooh said. “He used to hide when he felt scared, but now he says, ‘Pooh, it’s okay to feel scared, so long as I don’t let it stop me.’ Naming our emotions gives them less power over us, and that’s a very warrior-like thing to do, don’t you think?”
Take Small Actions:
“Eeyore reminded me of this,” Pooh said thoughtfully. “Even when he’s feeling gloomy, he’ll do one small thing to feel better—like fixing his tail or helping us hang ornaments. Every little action adds up to something big.”
Lean on Your Warrior Tribe:
“And finally,” Pooh said, “there’s strength in leaning on our friends. We may all have different personalities, but together, we’re unstoppable. Whether it’s Eeyore’s wisdom, Piglet’s courage, or Tigger’s energy, we make a great team. And that’s what being a Mental Health Warrior is all about.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As Pooh put his notebook away, a twinkle sparkled in his eye. “I’m very excited for 2025,” he said. “As Mental Health Warriors, we’re ready for whatever comes next. Even if Tigger bounces into the tree and Piglet spills the hot cocoa, we’ll manage just fine.”
“What’s your goal for the new year?” I asked, curious to hear more.
“To keep spreading the message about the Mental Health Warrior Program, of course,” Pooh said firmly. “If we can thrive during the holidays with all their ups and downs, then we can thrive all year long! And who knows, I might even perfect my honey cookie recipe along the way.”
A Final Thought
As we said our goodbyes, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Pooh’s Warrior wisdom. The holidays can indeed be tough, but with a plan, self-compassion, small steps, and the support of our Warrior tribe, we can truly THRIVE—just like Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood.
This holiday season, remember Pooh’s poem and take it to heart. Be kind to yourself, embrace your inner Warrior, and let your light shine—just like the star atop the holiday tree. And don’t forget to carry that excitement into your Mental Health Warrior journey in 2025!
Bruce Schutter
(Creator of the Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin)
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