In 2021, I was encouraged to seek help by friends and family in 2021. At first, I was not happy with them, but looking back, I'm grateful they pushed me to get help. As soon as I spoke out, it started to help hugely.
Family has been a huge help for me through my journey. As well as people I've worked with, like all my nurses. Being more open and accepting that something needed to change and letting people help. Everyone who supported me made a massive impact on my experience. And when it came to trauma, learning to accept that it happened and it wasn't your fault, just like Olivia Benson said.
Speaking out about mental health can be harder than people might often think. With all the stigma that comes with it. It's not something to be ashamed of. People can't just move in from their trauma. It sticks to you. So many people hold so much stigma around mental health, especially psych wards. It's not this big taboo topic that should be kept secret. People shouldn't feel like they're walking on eggshells when they talk about mental health or psych wards.
I’ve now started a non-profit, Purple Hearts of Hope. Through this, I raise money to make and distribute care packages to the youth mental health ward in Christchurch Hospital. Purple Hearts of Hope has given me a purpose each day. It has also taught me lots about life. To have strength and to ALWAYS treat people with kindness. You never know what someone is going through. As well as all this, I'm hoping to use my platform to remove the stigma around mental health. Especially around psych wards.
Ask your friends if they're ok. Tell them you love them. Make it weird if you have to. But someone could be dying right next to you and you wouldn't even know it. For anyone who may be struggling, I know it's really hard right now. But one day you will be grateful you kept going. "Even on the darkest of days, the sun will set, and we can try again."
-Naomi
Voices of Hope wants you to know that you do not have to do this alone. Click here to 'find help' - it's not weak to speak!