I’m finally brave enough to open up and share my experience with a traumatic mental disorder. It started about a year ago, and I was unaware of how drastic the effects can be on someone’s life. It started off slowly, but as time went on it seemed to worsen until I felt totally overwhelmed and helpless.
I experienced a lot of symptoms during that time—panic, fear, exhaustion, recurring thoughts that often kept me awake at night. But one of the most difficult aspect for me was the isolating feeling knowing I couldn’t talk to anyone about my turmoil. I put on a facade of optimism even when deep down I was crumbling inside.
It took me awhile to access the help that would eventually get me back to feeling like myself again. Therapy has been one major part of that recovery journey but also making lifestyle changes—eating healthier, adopting an exercise routine and getting enough restful sleep—all things that are important in regaining control and finding balance again.
I still have days where I feel vulnerable but now more than ever before I’m learning strategies and skills for better self-care so when a bad day does come, I know how to find solace as quick as possible. Sharing my story is also helping me immensely in finding a sense of community which reminds me that there are other people out there who may be going through similar experiences even if they are hesitant to break their silence surrounding this subject.