Mental health is an essential part of our overall well-being and should be a conversation we
have openly and consistently. It’s not something to be hidden, it’s just as important as physical
health. By talking about mental health regularly, we can break down the stigma, support each
other, and create a world where everyone feels safe to seek help.
Mental Health is like the weather, it’s unpredictable, ever-changing, and often out of our control.
It wasn’t until I was 47 years old that I received a diagnosis, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and more.
Suddenly, everything started to make sense. I understood why I behaved the way I did, why I
felt certain emotions so intensely, and why my brain simply worked differently from others. This
realization was both a relief and a revelation. It wasn’t my fault. I was not lazy, worthless, or
weak. My brain was just wired differently, and that’s okay.
I encountered shame and misunderstanding from my family. I was told to “just get over it,”
These judgments only added to my pain, making me feel isolated and invalidated. But I’ve
learned that my mental health is just as important as my physical health. It’s okay not to be okay
sometimes. Recognizing this is an imperative step toward healing and self-acceptance.
I talk about the importance of self-love, how crucial it is to embrace ourselves fully, including our
vulnerabilities and traumas. I’ve learned that holding in my pain does not heal, it hurts. When I
finally opened up about my struggles, I found strength and connection. However, I also paid a
price. Because I didn’t seek help sooner, I was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, an
autoimmune disorder. So much trauma was stored in my body.
March is autoimmune disorder awareness month, I want to remind everyone that it’s okay not to
be okay. Your mental health matters, and taking care of it is a vital part of your overall
well-being. Don’t be afraid to seek help, to talk about your struggles, or to prioritize self-love.
Your mess can become your message, a powerful testimony of resilience, growth, and hope.
You are not alone, and your mental and physical health are worth fighting for