We all have different coping skills when it comes to handling anxiety and the challenges it brings. One of my coping mechanisms is watching Nick Jr.’s animated show Paw Patrol! Although I’m 24 -years old and in college, studying creative writing, you might be wondering what is Paw Patrol and how did I get introduced to paw patrol?
What Is Paw Patrol
Paw Patrol is an animated series shown on Nick Jnr following the adventures of Ryder and his gang of pups living in Adventure Bay. Each episode sees the pups face a problem that needs solved either on land or sea. There are 8 different pups, each having a specific profession based around the emergency services.
My Introduction to Paw Patrol
It all started for me a few years ago. When I first struggling with the feeling of being trapped in my body because of my cerebral palsy. And trying to deal with the reality that I’m stuck in a body that I don’t have much control over and that my brain will never be free form this condition. Which causes me to have sleepless nights, spasms 24-7, or struggle to do task that others might find simple like putting on shoes or going to bathroom. All of these constant obstacles cause me to have struggle with anxiety which is common for young adults with Cerebral palsy.
When I first discovered that I was suffering from anxiety, I felt like I was not getting any relief out of the things I was told I needed to do to reduce my anxiety attacks from happening. I felt lost, and that I had this constant feeling of having a plastic bag over my head. Which felt like it was taking the life out of me every day, causing me to suffer from anxiety attacks over and over again.
It wasn’t until my then boyfriend recommend I watched Nick Jr’s Paw Patrol with him. He too had cerebral palsy and he had the same struggles as I did.
From the minute, I saw Chase, Marshall, Skye, Zuma, Tracker, Rocky, Rubble and Everest, my body becomes relaxed and I instantly feel like I could breathe again!
What I’ve Learned From Paw Patrol
As I watch paw patrol I remember through the lessons being taught that a problem always has a situation. And most of all the feeling that I have when I face issues with my anxiety every day! I remember that it takes baby steps and that nothing gets easier but you have to keep going despite the obstacles you’re facing in your life just like I do with my anxiety and spastic Cerebral palsy. It has taught me that I can’t give up on my challenges because I’m having a rough day with feeling anxious or having a lack of movement due to my chronic pain with Cerebral palsy.
Thanks to watching Paw Patrol I’m reminded that I’m a strong woman and I could overcome anything that comes in my way and I will overcome anything just like the characters on the show.
About The Author
Tylia Flores is a 24-year-old born with cerebral palsy. Although her condition has affected her mobility, it has never affected her will and determination to make a difference in the world. Through her many life challenges and obstacles, she discovered her passion for writing. Tylia’s goal in life is to share her stories with the world.