Strong Not Silent - No Health Without Mental Health

Strong Not Silent

No Health Without Mental Health

 I have struggled with Anxiety and Burnout.

I cared for and worried about others both inside and outside work for so long, I forgot how to care for myself. 

I didn't give myself permission to notice how I felt, let alone take care of my own needs. Life threw in some tough curve balls as life does. 

This went on so long I became ill with Anxiety. Burnout was the end of this long sprial, I felt like a dry autumn leaf, used up, empty.

Recovery was hard. The key was reversing these problems; giving myself permission to notice my feelings & take care of myself. I saw my GP & counsellor. I learnt many life skills & spoke about my journey.

Looking back, the stigma surrounding mental illness was a huge barrier, I felt ashamed & isolated. It would have really helped me to have had a role model.

So, now that I am recovered, I have decided to stand up & be that person, in the hope it will help others.

I have chosen to speak about my journey & how I have found a way to Thrive in Life & Work.

Campaigns like @strongnotsilent are critical to help us tackle this stigma about mental health - together.

July 2020