For years I tried to cope with my mental health on my own, hiding what I felt was some shameful flaw from those around me. I felt embarrassed. I felt ashamed. I felt as if it were my fault and I had done something to deserve this horrible bleak cloud that seemed to hang over me perpetually. It put me off reaching out and seeking help. It fed the demons I was fighting.
I first saught help 4 years ago. It is only really in the last 18 months or so that I've really opened up about my mental health. By no means am I cured, but I am getting better. There are times I slip but each time I am helped back to my feet by the wonderful people around me.
Dealing with your mental health can be a truly horrible experience.
Some days in life you'll feel crap. Some days will feel bleak and empty. Some days will leave you exhausted.
This is not a flaw on your part. This is not your fault. This is nothing to be ashamed of.
It's been said countless times in countless different ways but it doesn't make it any less true; it's ok not to be ok.
Don't be afraid to reach out. Don't be afraid to talk to someone or seek help. It might be one of the scariest things you'll ever do, but also one of the most worthwhile.
You got this.
Fuck it and fight it.
