Breaking the Silence: Embracing Our Struggles During Mental Health Week

Introduction to Mental Health Week

Mental Health

It's Mental Health Week here in Canada, and as I sat down to work this morning, I felt it was the perfect time to share a post. Recently, I've been facing significant mental challenges while undergoing cancer treatments. It's vital, I believe, to discuss our mental health openly and honestly.

My Journey with Mental Health

Many of you know about my struggles with depression and anxiety since my early 20s, which have ebbed and flowed over the years. What you might not know is that these challenges have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Today, however, the stigma around these issues is diminishing, allowing us to speak more freely about our mental health struggles.

This girl here...in her late teens and early 20's, was severely depressed. She hid it very well.

There is No Shame in Struggling

I want to emphasize one thing in this post: THERE IS NO SHAME in struggling. If we all could share our mental health challenges openly, it would become clear that EVERYONE faces difficulties in managing their mental well-being, especially in these trying times where various life aspects can be overwhelming. I hid my battle for years, until I wasn't able to keep going.

Living with Depression and Anxiety

I'm not embarrassed to admit that I've been struggling, both physically and mentally. There have been mornings where just getting out of bed felt like an insurmountable task, and I woke up feeling a deep sense of disappointment. While it's tough to confess, especially when I think of my family who needs and loves me, being transparent is crucial. It’s essential to recognize that we all face moments of desperation, but with effective coping mechanisms, we can navigate through these times without losing ourselves.

Techniques and Support

Having battled severe depression in my youth and received treatment, I’ve learned techniques that help maintain my balance and prevent me from slipping deeper. Now, I can recognize when I might need help and have the confidence to discuss my feelings or seek assistance. Regular sessions with a therapist allow me to process my emotions, understand their roots, and work towards feeling better about my current state. This journey has taught me to embrace my struggles without shame and to communicate openly with others.

Gratitude and Reflection

Reflecting on my experiences in my 20s, I'm grateful for having gone through them. Despite being one of the darkest periods of my life, the support from some truly caring individuals helped me survive. Now, I face another battle, one that has reshaped me more profoundly than I could have imagined—physically, personally, and in my roles as a woman, wife, and mother. This fight has forced me into acceptance and to endure intensely tough days, yet it also offers the opportunity to recover and strengthen mentally. I manage this by expressing my emotions, allowing myself to cry, taking moments for solitude, journaling, dressing up, and applying makeup. Although I can’t style my hair yet, I find joy in the progress I've made.

Heather 2024

Conclusion: Maintaining Mental Health

Life is undoubtedly tough, filled with unexpected challenges. Maintaining both physical and mental health is crucial for navigating through these obstacles.

During Mental Health Week, I encourage you to consider what you’re doing to maintain your mental health. If you’re struggling, remember that it’s okay to seek help. Reach out to loved ones, share your feelings, consult a doctor if necessary. Remember, you are not alone in this.

Heather