it gets better

So today is world mental health day, but the message of looking out for one another, asking twice etc, these should be spread all through the year, not just this week. 

Just nine months ago I got my semi colon tattoo and I shared my story, and since then I’ve promoted mental health awareness and reducing stigma in some different ways like my walk a mile event, marathon in a month etc. (and there’s more to come, but I’m always open to suggestions!). 

It feels insane to me that nine months ago I opened up to the world for the first time, and I really haven’t looked back since. 

Feeling like I could talk to people about things with people has really aided my recovery. 

I will always encourage everyone to speak out, and remind you that I’m always a listening ear. No matter if I’ve never spoken to you, or I speak to you every day, if it’s 11am or 11pm, if it’s verbally or over a message, I’ll always listen. And I know I’m not the only one, there are so many people that will listen, so don’t bottle it up. It is nothing to be ashamed of.

In the last few months things have gotten so much better for me.

I’ve realised who my true friends are, and who cares. I’m travelled with my friends, my family and even on my own, which a year ago I didn’t think I would ever do. I’ve got a final interview to work in my happy place (Walt Disney world) next summer. 

Most importantly in regards to my mental health, I’ve stopped my regular appointments which started a whole three years ago. They are now on a “I’d like an appointment” basis or “hey this is what’s happening in my life” email, and I’m so happy that I genuinely feel confident enough to not have these regular appointments. 

I can confidently say I’m stable enough with the support of my family, friends, and my medication that I have been able to reduce my counselling which has been such a big and consistent part of my routine for three years.

So if you take anything from this post, let it be this “it gets better.”