# @steeple_squigs on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/CTdVKXTpypb
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/13952554-steeple-squigs-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/99d5ecc744.jpg
- **Posted:** 2021-09-05T23:24:51.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Colleen Quigley (@steeple_squigs) — https://gondola.cc/steeple_squigs

## Caption

One of my mentees asked me a question last week that has been rolling around my 🧠 ever since…
Here’s what happened:
I was hosting a small group mentor session with voiceinsport with a few high school and college girls from various countries and cities. We were talking about peaks and valleys- the ups and downs of sport and life and how even the people they look up to and idolize have really low points at times (whether they choose to share about those struggles or not). I promised them I’d always be open and honest about my journey in hopes of creating more meaningful connections with those I come in contact with along the way, both virtually and in person.
I shared some of my peaks and valleys throughout my career and a bit about how I handled the massive disappointments I’ve faced like dropping out of the US Olympic Trials this summer or getting DQd at the 2017 World Championships.
I shared the concept that kateplusfate coined- “the pit of deep despair”- that I have found myself in numerous times.
We talked about “it’s okay to not be okay” and being honest with those around you about being not okay.
Aright, so that’s the convo. Then one of the young women asked me something like- what do you do when you’re in the pit of deep despair for a long time and you worry that those around you are getting sick of you saying that you’re sad or that you’re not okay. Essentially: How long is too long to stay in the pit?
Me: “Wow. Great question.” *chokes back tears*
I think I was able to pull together a response about those who love you will stay with you and those who fade away weren’t real friends anyways, and reiterated the importance of therapy…. I think that’s what I said at least.
I haven’t been able to stop thinking about this question since then.
I’m writing a blog-ish piece about the topic now for my website and newsletter.
Think I’ll call it:
“How long is too long to be in the pit of deep despair?”
Short answer: I don’t know.
Long answer: you know I have thoughts and they will be on my website soon and will go out to the newsletter subscribers first (free to subscribe via my website).
#peaksandvalleys #mentalhealthmatters 
📷: davidsalafia

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 9,529
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 59

## Tags

peaksandvalleys, mentalhealthmatters

---
Copyright (c) Gondola