My Mental Health Story/ Things that helped it improve

Things that have helped me with my mental health:

Cognitive behavioural therapy 

CBT helps people learn to identify, question and change how their thoughts, attitudes and beliefs relate to the emotional and behavioural reactions that cause them difficulty. I practice this to this day. To learn more click here.

Headspace meditation app

Having anxiety can sometimes disrupt my sleep schedule especially on bad days. And headspace helps me fall asleep but also taught me how to meditate. There’s different “courses” you can take. There’s different meditations for different emotions, etc. To find out more click here.

Going to the doctor and being put on medication 

I was out on Zoloft and when I had negative side affects, I was switched to Prozac. Staying in contact with a trusted doctor is really important. I was able to communicate my side effects and concerns and she was able to help me. Medication for mental illness can be a controversial topic. People are made to feel bad about having to take medication for them to feel better. Let’s end that stigma. You don’t go after someone for taking Advil when they have a headache. 

Staying active 

Movement helps fight depression AND anxiety. I have done a dozen workout programs. I’ve gone to leisure centres, gyms, classes and done at home work outs. My favourite by far is the Kira Stokes Fit App. She has sections for everything. She’s very positive and works your whole

body. She has sections on her app that can be done at home and other sections that can be done at the gym. She has workouts with no equipment and workouts with advanced equipment. She’s amazing. You can find more info about the KSF App here. Overall I recommend finding something you enjoy doing and feel good after you’ve done it. 

Rex 

TW: suicide 

My dog saved my life. I was in a really dark place mentally. I didn’t even know I had anxiety I just thought something was wrong with me. I didn’t have a healthy relationship with anyone in my life. I couldn’t keep a job. I felt alone, misunderstood and weak. I remember laying on my bed thinking about what would happen if I died. What my families and friends reactions would be, how long it would take them to recover and how I would do it. Who would find me and who would look after my affairs. I decided how I would do it and as soon as I decided, Rex came in the bed and layed directly on top of me. He wouldn’t let me get up. I started crying and he stayed on me until I fell asleep. When I say that my dog saved my life, I mean it. Without Rex, I would not be here. This is hard for me to share but I hope it helps someone somewhere feel less alone and misunderstood. I am always here to talk. Rex also will calm me down if I get worked up, if I cry or if I get angry. He will jump on me, lick my face or make me pet him until I calm down. He does this for others in my family as well. He’s really special. 

Having a clean space 

Your space is a direct reflection of your mind. I find when I keep my house in order, I can keep my thoughts the same way. 

Staying hydrated & eating real food

Properly taking care of my body helps with intrusive thoughts and panic attacks. 

Crocheting (or something to help practice mindfulness) 

This one goes hand in hand with the headspace/ meditating. You can’t be somewhere else while you’re crocheting and counting stitches. You also end up with something. It’s awesome! I recommend JaydaInStitches. You can find her YouTube channel here.

Self improvement books 

I get books from the library or friends and family lend me books. I also use my neighbourhood little free library and find books that are on anxiety and mental health. Reading has taught me a lot. 

See you in the next blog,

   🖤 Tawny & Rex 🐾