TW: This episode and blog post features discussions about eating disorders, anorexia, depression, and anxiety. This content may be difficult for some, and listener discretion is strongly advised.
National Mental Health Day passed a few weeks ago. I was so inspired by everyone who not only acknowledged the day but shared their unique stories. I was reminded of my own the struggles and achievements and how much hearing other people’s stories helped in my recovery. So, I wanted to take some time to share more about my own personal mental health journey in the hopes it will help someone else who might be listening.
Throughout my teen years and into my twenties, I struggled with eating disorders. For probably ten years, I had an unhealthy relationship with food. And every time things got stressful, I would focus on what I could control, and for me, that was what I ate and how much I exercised. It really wasn’t until I was in college, newly married, and under so much stress that I realized this obsession was making me miserable. I found a therapist and spent a year going to weekly meetings and counseling appointments. Since then, I’ve remained proactive, checking in with my thoughts and working to stay away from extremes in my own behavior. Eventually, I had to relearn who I was, my interests, and my passions which ultimately led to my first Etsy shop and company, One Little Belt.
Choosing help is never going to be easy. How and when I got help made all the difference to me. The work is never comfortable, and you must be vulnerable and empathetic. But no one is alone, and we can learn so much from supporting one another. Putting in the work is worth it. The future you and I are rooting for you.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, there is help.
National Eating Disorders Association or NEDA Helpline at 800-931-2237.
National Alliance on Mental Illness or NAMI Helpline at 800-950- 6264.
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