#longpostalert #late
This is an incredibly personal post, one that I've been meaning to write for over 7-8 years. Each World Mental Health Day, I have hesitated, but this year feels like it's about time.
In 2015, I found myself in a hospital's emergency room, battling what turned out to be a panic attack. Sweating, heart racing, I truly felt it might be the end. My family's history of cardiac issues intensified my fear. The panic resurfaced in Bangalore a few weeks later, resulting in more hospital visits and eventually a diagnosis of depression and an anxiety disorder after a series of tests and consults.
The following months were rough. Denial, anger, and ultimately acceptance marked my path. It was a tough time for my family and colleagues at 1mg - I wasn't fully there. I owe an immeasurable debt to those closest to me who supported me without judgment, providing the space I needed to navigate this storm.
Despite my wishes that this had never happened, I've realized that my struggles have transformed me into a more empathetic person, towards myself and also those enduring similar challenges. Unlike many other conditions, mental health disorders linger, waiting to take over. As my depression diagnosis nears a decade, I feel it's essential to normalize discussions about mental health and mainstream the conversation around mental health.
The pivotal factor in my relationship with my disorder was acceptance. After traversing denial and anger, embracing my condition allowed me to recognize warning signs, learn coping strategies, and establish habits that stretched the periods between episodes.
Embracing acceptance also empowered me to openly share my experiences with friends, receiving invaluable support and reciprocating advice. This revealed that many of my friends also grapple with mental health issues, fostering a sense of normalcy rather than feeling broken.
Today, as opposed to years past, resources to combat mental health issues have expanded significantly. Innovations from entrepreneurs and the potential for consumer wearables to aid in treating depression offer hope. A trustworthy psychiatrist and adherence to a medication plan are integral. Initially wary of medication, I learned to balance its benefits against potential dependence under my therapist's guidance.
Engaging a therapist was one of the wisest choices I made. Finding someone with whom I built a rapport, who observes dispassionately, and suggests interventions without judgment has been important to my personal growth.
Lastly, I’ve found that incorporating exercise and meditation into my daily life has made a significant difference. Prioritizing both physical and mental well-being is essential, just as we do for our careers and social lives.
Remember that you’re not alone, and taking that first step toward support can make all the difference.
#EveryDayIsMentalHealthDay #WorldMentalHealthDay
This is an incredibly personal post, one that I've been meaning to write for over 7-8 years. Each World Mental Health Day, I have hesitated, but this year feels like it's about time.
In 2015, I found myself in a hospital's emergency room, battling what turned out to be a panic attack. Sweating, heart racing, I truly felt it might be the end. My family's history of cardiac issues intensified my fear. The panic resurfaced in Bangalore a few weeks later, resulting in more hospital visits and eventually a diagnosis of depression and an anxiety disorder after a series of tests and consults.
The following months were rough. Denial, anger, and ultimately acceptance marked my path. It was a tough time for my family and colleagues at 1mg - I wasn't fully there. I owe an immeasurable debt to those closest to me who supported me without judgment, providing the space I needed to navigate this storm.
Despite my wishes that this had never happened, I've realized that my struggles have transformed me into a more empathetic person, towards myself and also those enduring similar challenges. Unlike many other conditions, mental health disorders linger, waiting to take over. As my depression diagnosis nears a decade, I feel it's essential to normalize discussions about mental health and mainstream the conversation around mental health.
The pivotal factor in my relationship with my disorder was acceptance. After traversing denial and anger, embracing my condition allowed me to recognize warning signs, learn coping strategies, and establish habits that stretched the periods between episodes.
Embracing acceptance also empowered me to openly share my experiences with friends, receiving invaluable support and reciprocating advice. This revealed that many of my friends also grapple with mental health issues, fostering a sense of normalcy rather than feeling broken.
Today, as opposed to years past, resources to combat mental health issues have expanded significantly. Innovations from entrepreneurs and the potential for consumer wearables to aid in treating depression offer hope. A trustworthy psychiatrist and adherence to a medication plan are integral. Initially wary of medication, I learned to balance its benefits against potential dependence under my therapist's guidance.
Engaging a therapist was one of the wisest choices I made. Finding someone with whom I built a rapport, who observes dispassionately, and suggests interventions without judgment has been important to my personal growth.
Lastly, I’ve found that incorporating exercise and meditation into my daily life has made a significant difference. Prioritizing both physical and mental well-being is essential, just as we do for our careers and social lives.
Remember that you’re not alone, and taking that first step toward support can make all the difference.
#EveryDayIsMentalHealthDay #WorldMentalHealthDay
