My Mental Health Journey; How I Started Healing and Thriving

In my youth, I always felt as though I didn't belong. I didn't enjoy the same sports as my peers, I never wanted to play at the park or go to the pool. This lack of belongingness followed me long into my adult years, as I struggle to socialize and connect with those around me. It took me many years to realize that I had depression. Yet, my diagnosis didn't do much to help. I had a reason for my feelings, but I still couldn't tackle them. That was until I heard about the five step plan. A peer of mine, who struggled with similar depressive episodes, showed me his path to success, and so I want to share it with all of you.

The first step, and arguably the hardest, is acknowledging that you have a problem. The rest of the journey is impossible without first facing your mental health. It can be hard, and you must be vulnerable and self-aware, but by recognizing the impact of your mental health, you can open the door to healing.

Next, it can be smart to seek professional help. Healing doesn't happen alone, and professional support can be extremely helpful in navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether its a counselor, psychiatrist, or therapist, they can be an essential voice of reason and determination as you embark on this path.

After this, it is time to establish healthy coping mechanisms. Healthy is an important word here, as many people fall into harmful cycles to deal with their mental health. However, healthy coping mechanisms can help manage everyday stress and provide relief when negative emotions arise. Practices such as mindfulness, positive self-talk and deep-breathing exercises can significantly reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. For me, guided meditations were my best friend throughout the process

Next, and in my opinion the most important step, is cultivating positive relationships and support systems. Although the most important, I found this step to be the most difficult. Often times, it is paramount to end previous relationships. Toxic friends or partners can drag you back down, and so, however difficult it may be, it is very important to surround yourself with people that will uplift you, and help you on your journey. It can also be difficult to make new, supportive relationships. It's easy, I found, to fall back into depressive episodes, and feel as though you don't want to interact with others. However, it is of utmost importance to get out. Meet new people, and foster these new friendships. It may take time, but most good things do.

Finally, you must embrace the growth process, and be self-compassionate in the difficult times. The healing process is almost never linear, and setbacks are a normal part of the journey. So, be kind to yourself, and acknowledge that it will be difficult. But I found that as long as you embrace the journey, and are kind to yourself and the process, healing will come.

And, to whoever is reading this, I hope you can find the healing you want. It is hard, and will take time and effort, but I can promise you that its worth. Everyone who feels left out, everyone who feels like they don't belong, I promise their are people out there for you. I hope by sharing my journey I can help other with their growth process. I believe in each and every one of you who are struggling. You got this!