When the ordinary isn't so ordinary anymore..

So what happens when the ordinary isn't so ordinary anymore?
That is pretty much what happens when your mental health is affected.
Since I started experiencing anxiety every day it has become a struggle.
For some people experiencing mental health difficulties even simply getting out of bed can be an absolute struggle, leaving your bedroom can become a chore. Leaving the house, travelling on public transport, going to the shops..just going out in general. Everything can change..
 
Everything that used to seem the ordinary, the normal, the usual, the day to day life can just seem a distant memory. You can't actually pinpoint when everything changed but you just wish it would go back to the way it was. Make life a little more easier. Not having to worry about something happening to you if you leave the house, like fearing your going to have all eyes on you or going to loose control. I know full well that there is so many people out there who suffer from mental health difficulties. I really wish they could all receive the help & support they all deserve.
 
Now I look back, my anxiety started about the age of 17. Just when I had finished my apprenticeship. Before then I had attended school full time, achieved all my GCSEs so luckily for me that wasn't affected. Unfortunately some people are affected before hand & struggle with school & don't achieve the grades. So once I had completed my apprenticeship & gained my NVQ the job hunt began, but along with the job hunt came the rise of anxiety. I went so long without actually going to the doctors, just tried to get on with it & ignore it I guess. Eventually I went to the doctors & have since received medication & therapy. Last year in 2012 I received CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) but didn't feel any benefit from it. So last week I attended my first CBT appointment (with a different therapist) but this time I have been entered in at a different stage. I thought CBT was just one stage & one treatment, I was wrong. I often start to feel anxious before having to go to therapy but then I think to myself, if I could do this with ease then I wouldn't be needing the treatment as much.
 
I urge anyone out there who is suffering to get help honestly, you are not alone. Open up because you know what, it's okay to talk. The more we all speak openly about it, the more we bash that nasty stigma surrounding mental health right on the head.
 
I know the road to recovery might not be easy, but it will defiantly be worth it in the end. I'm told during recovery sometimes things may get worse before they get better, so I'm baring that in mind & I'm always going to remember....
 
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Are you experiencing mental difficulties?
Remember, there is always help available.
Admitting you need help isn't a sign of weakness either,
 it is a sign of bravery & strength.
It is also the first step on your road to recovery.
 
Thanks for reading.
- Anna ♥ 

8 comments

  1. Nice post. I'll be honest, it wasn't until earlier this year that I really recognised that my panic attacks and anxiety could be thought of as a proper illness. Unfortunately for me I can't quite remember a time when I wasn't affected. However, it was particularly bad during high school and I missed a lot of school days and neglected having a proper social life. I wish I had addressed it earlier as I think I missed out on a lot of things because of it.

    I think it's great that people are trying to raise awareness of something that comes with such stigma and is often not spoken about. Sorry for the rambling comment!

    Debi x
    http://dibdabdebs.blogspot.co.uk

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    1. Thank you Debi :) It's absolutely fine about the rambling comment, I don't mind at all so don't apologise :) I hope your doing well at the minute! <3 xx

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  2. fab post <3 we'll get there xx

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  3. Great post Anna, really admire your courage in life.
    Michaela xxx

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    1. Thank you Michaela, means a lot! :) xx

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  4. It's good to see someone posting about this subject!keep up the good work!:)

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