There is a movement in this country that I feel has to be nurtured and promoted.
Over years we have been repressed by the stigma associated with issues such as depression and anxiety. It’s as if we pulled back a massive elastic band and let the tension build up over the decades of ignorance on the subject, and now that elastic band has been released. We are slowly starting to witness the normalisation of the conversation surrounding mental health. This is incredibly positive.
As people start talking and seeking help the world gets a small bit brighter.
The next step involves going on a journey where you must learn “your” way of dealing and managing with “your” issues.
You must be patient and resilient.
As a 15 year old I experienced things that no teenager should have to deal with. I would go to my bed at night and rip my sheets apart trying to catch a breath. Choking, I would lie awake all night too afraid to close my eyes because I thought I was going to die. It felt as If I had been possessed. I became so isolated I could not even socialise with my peers. Out of frustration and fear I began self-harming, breaking my own arm off my bed in the hope a doctor could tell me what was wrong. They never did. I prayed that somebody would just say something, on the TV, on the Radio, wherever. They never did.
What I did not realise at the time was that this was normal. A lot of people dealt with it and I was not as alone and isolated as I first thought.
If anyone is reading and going through a similar tough time, I want you to know a few things.
You are not weak, you are not mad and you certainly are not alone.
I also promise you, if you speak to someone you will find empathy and possibility. I won’t lie, it’s hard to deal with and manage at times, but if you can deal with this now, the rest of life will be relatively easier.
The most interesting, creative, incredible people I have met over the years are those who in the past have struggled with their mental health.
What I suggest, get to know a little bit more about your mind. Try to understand it. At times it’s your best friend and sometimes it can be your worst enemy. Invest some time in it.
Go on your own journey of discovery. Challenge yourself, do things outside your comfort zone. You will be incredibly surprised what your body is capable of if you can learn to understand and appreciate your mind.
What could your challenge be? Learning an instrument, a language or completing a marathon. Whatever it is we will try give you the tools and information required to achieve it.
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