Making the leap - an intro to my new blog

I've been dipping my toe in to the world of blogging with an Instagram account, but I quickly found that I have far too much to say for an Instagram caption. 

I have realised over the past few months that I talk as much about my mental health as I do about my physical health, so this blog is a chance to refocus and start afresh.

A few months ago I realised I had truly lost myself. Over the past 6 years I have faced lots of challenges such as becoming a parent twice over, having a very poorly child, being diagnosed with endometriosis and interstitial cystitis (more on those in later posts) and suffering greatly with anxiety and low mood. My self esteem was rock bottom, my body image was appalling, and I just didn't know who I was anymore. 

I so badly wanted to be positive and strong despite my struggles, but until I realised that my problem was a mental health one, I just couldn't manage it. I was so frustrated with myself. After finally addressing the issue last year, I did a course of CBT and then started taking Sertraline for my mental health. 

This is what I posted back in December on my Instagram:

I have been on the antidepressant sertraline for four weeks now, so thought I'd give an update.
What a difference.
No, it's not a perfect fix. Yes, my anxiety still breaks through some days, but I've seen a great improvement.
I am getting joy out of the things I love again, I'm taking pride in my appearance again, I am smiling and laughing again. I feel more like myself than I have in years.
I waited too long to go down the medication route - I wasn't ready until I felt like I had really lost myself. I wasted so much time struggling because of the stigma around antidepressants, and that makes me a bit sad. But I'm so pleased to be seeing things in a more positive light again.
If you feel like you might be at that point - talk to your doctor. Honestly, it's ok. 💕

Of course there have been ups and downs along the way, and I expect there always will be, but I'm ready to take on the next chapter and keep making myself a priority. My husband has been, and continues to be, super supportive and I can't thank him enough for that. 

Going forward I'll be posting about parenting, chronic illness & mental health - but giving more tips and advice about living well with these challenges, particularly in North East England. I'll also be posting about my own journey, including my self image and the things I do for my physical and mental well-being. 

If you got this far, thank you, and happy reading!

For more regular updates from me please like my Facebook page and follow me on Instagram.