This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
On World Mental Health Day, it's heartening to see people from all walks of life speaking out about mental health. But for many, the stigma surrounding mental illness still persists.
As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, I can attest to the importance of breaking down these barriers. In my case, it was a terrifying experience with postpartum anxiety that forced me to confront my own demons.
It happened when my daughter Ivy was just a baby. I was going through chemotherapy, feeling utterly horrific, and my sister was visiting from Australia. As I was walking across the room with Ivy, I slipped and almost dropped her. The thought of hurting my child sent me spiraling out of control.
I became convinced that I wasn't safe to be around Ivy, that I would hurt her or worse. The fear was suffocating, and I didn't know how to shake it off. I felt ashamed, like I was a bad mother, and that people would judge me if they knew what was happening.
But with the help of my oncology psychologist, I was able to confront my fears and learn to manage my anxiety. She taught me a technique to rationalize my negative thoughts and fill my day with positive ones. It was a game-changer.
Looking back, I wish I had felt brave enough to speak out about my experience sooner. I wish I had known that it was normal to struggle with mental health issues, that it didn't make me any less of a mother or a person.
Today, I want to encourage everyone to speak out about their mental health struggles. It's okay to not be okay, and it's okay to ask for help. Let's break down the stigma surrounding mental illness and create a culture of openness and understanding.
