I first realised I was struggling with my mental health in 2020. I was isolating myself from other people and I started getting panic attacks. In April 2023, something happened and I shut down for a while until I was encouraged to get help and start recovery. It was during this process I received my diagnoses - anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
One of my biggest supports through my mental health journey has been one of my school teachers, simply by being a listening ear and offering advice where possible. Know that there will always be someone out there who is willing to listen to you and help you. I also have been channelling my feelings into dance, and using crocheting as a distraction. Distraction is key!!
I wish more people knew that a lot of my mental health struggles come from my family dynamics, so sometimes seeing 'happy' families when I'm in public can be a bit hard. Also, I've just graduated high school, which has become a safe place for me over the last few years. The change and transition has been a bit difficult.
When I was in the worst part of my depression, my eating habits really changed. I was only managing to eat one meal a day if that. Even now, I'm slowly building my metabolism back up again, but I still can't eat when I am really anxious. However, since choosing recovery, I'm currently over 100 days self-harm-free and it isn't controlling my life anymore.
In the last year or so, I've started going to my church regularly with my friends because I've never had the chance to go with my family. I've realised how much I love the people there and the environment. Other people who are major supports to me, such as my teacher who I mentioned above, have helped me through so much. Also, my dog was a huge source of comfort to me!
Mental health isn't linear - everyone's experiences, feelings, values, etc are different. "Just take it one day at a time."
-Lill
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!