HARD does not mean that you stop.
FEAR definitely does not mean that you stop.
You have to push through and keep going.
As I started to talk myself again out of beginning this blog, my fiancé told me, “Lauren, HARD does not mean that you stop. FEAR definitely does not mean that you stop. You have to push through and keep going.”
This blog has been on my heart since 2015. Yes, 5+ years. Pushing the fears and hard work aside, alas, we are finally here. *insert handclaps, snaps, and cartwheels*
Some of you may remember in late 2019, after much hesitation, I publicly announced my struggle with depression, suicidal thoughts, a close attempt, and a new journey with antidepressants. It was that transparency that served as an impactful motivator for why I finally began this blog. When I made that #erasethestigma post on my Instagram, SOOOOO many people reached out to me. While a hefty number of messages spoke comfort and peace to me, (thank you so much to each amazing person who did that) many messages echoed my feelings of pain and struggle. They were like me — and I was blown away.
I gained a few things from that Instagram experience:
- I am not alone.
- People want to hear the transparent story of someone who is trying to figure this mental health thing out.
- Medication is NOT a magical fix that makes life full of rainbows and sunshine – but it helps.
- Mental health is stigmatized, or looked down upon, especially in communities of color.
- There is a true connection between mind, body, and spirit.
Hence the reasons why I am finally starting my blog! Cheers to stories about my journey, practical ways to start your own, breaking down the mental health research (if you’re a bit of a nerd like me), and learning ways to renew, reset, and refocus to be a mentally healthy you.
If any of that sounds like something you’re down for, I welcome you to join me! If not, I’ll still be here when you change your mind lol.
Until next time…
Get well. Be well. Stay well.
Lauren ♥