10/10/2025
This mental health awareness day, I wanted to share my own personal experience with depression and anxiety. Here’s what I’ve had to learn over the past 10 years…
1. Boundaries and unconditional love
I was lucky enough to have Sean with me at my lowest points and throughout it all he was there to support me and show me complete unconditional love. Having him show that unconditional love over and over eventually made me have more compassion and love for myself. So surround yourself with good people who care about you. On the other hand there were people I had to distance myself from and I had to start setting boundaries and saying no. Sometimes people we care about don’t always have our best interests at heart and they can be a bad influence on us.
2.Self awareness
Awareness brings freedom. When you start to notice your thoughts, triggers, and emotions without attaching to them, you create space to heal. You no longer live in survival mode — you begin to respond from peace instead of fear. This takes a lot of practice and isn’t something that will happen overnight. I still have to check myself occasionally on this. I’m much better at recognising the signs of when I’m slipping into a low mood, and I’m much better at stepping back and doing things to help myself overcome it.
3.Nature and Exercise
Walking, breathing in fresh air, or simply being still in nature helps calm the mind and release heavy energy. Movement — even gentle — releases endorphins and reminds your body how it feels to be alive. Walking the dogs is my thing! It’s 40 mins to just relax and be present.
4.Self development
Small acts of growth bring back your sense of purpose. Take time out to read or listen to audible if you struggle with focus. I learnt a lot about the law of attraction and I try and listen to inspiring podcasts. There a millions of people who are going through the same things us and hearing their journeys and their wins will inspire you to do more for yourself.
5.Holistic therapies
Reiki, massage, reflexology calm the nervous system and helps release what your body has been holding on to. Holistic therapies are becoming more popular for treating depression.
