Recent news of wealthy celebrities ending seemingly picture perfect lives shocked the world. For those of us who understand exactly how mental illness consumes lives, sadly, it really wasn’t as surprising as it should have been.
Kate Spade was one of my favorite creators. It’s devastating using was after her infamous name. She had such an eye for beauty and with her fun old school vibe and beehive style hair, I would not have guessed she struggled with the darkness I dealt with for so many years.
I’ve spent a lot of time there, stuck in that scary overwhelming space. Apparently, Kate did too, along with the much loved master chef, Anthony Bourdain. It makes us all stop and wonder who else we adore is fighting their own demons at this very moment I type these words.
Depression does not discriminate. Anxiety has no borders. These issues and all the other variants of mental illness can consume anyone at any time. One of the many facts I’ve come to understand over my lifetime of dealing with this: your current experiences, financial situation, family, job… can’t stop it from taking over.
Mental illness can take over a life. It doesn’t matter if you’re a celebrity, stay-at-home parent, student, teacher, or any other title we label others.
Depression has chained me to my bed on more days than I care to count or remember. Anxiety kept me tied to my couch for far too many hours afraid of fighting yet another panic attack in public.
I’ve used a combination of therapy, medication and natural solutions over the years. I’m in a better place now than I’ve ever been. But I remember the darkness well. As I’ve shared many times on this blog, it’s been a lifelong struggle.
Here’s what I know. We are stronger together. Isolation will get us every time.
If you take one thing from these words today, let it be this: Reach out to someone. Anyone. Just tell someone things are not ok.
I started this online space for those of us seeking greater health in body, mind, and soul. It truly is a combination of all 3 to keep us moving forward in the life God intends for us. I find my peace today in Him.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
~John 16:33
This life will never be perfect. We each have our crosses to bear. Mental illness is one of mine. Thankfully I’ve found a way to not only endure life, but to actually enjoy it on a level I never thought possible. Some days, life even amazes me.
I always look to my very favorite verse for encouragement in my most difficult moments:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
~Jeremiah 29:11
God has a plan for you, to give you hope and a future. Don’t ever give up on getting there. Every one of these difficult seasons you go through will make you stronger. I’m living proof of that fact and I have complete faith you will be as well.
I feel it absolutely necessary to include this for anyone feeling hopeless today. If you or someone you love needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Counselors are available 24 hours everyday.
Thank you for being here. I would love for you to subscribe to my free newsletter and continue this journey with me. Recovery is possible.
The news has been devastating recently but I’m not so naive to believe that picture perfect lives are actually that. I have experienced depression of loved ones and anxiety in myself. It’s real and hard and dark. Thank you for sharing part of your story today. Our stories need to be shared.
You are so right, Mary. Picture-perfect lives only actually appear that way in pictures. Reality is always much different. So good to see you, my friend.
So sorry for all you’ve been through. I too have dealt with depression and anxiety. And both are wretched. And I too have written about it, in the hopes that talking about it will help someone else. My story is over at lovehealme.blogspot.com and mycrazyfaith.blogspot.com. Thank for sharing your story here. God bless you.
Writing our stories is one of the best forms of therapy, Heather. I started this to serve others and was pleasantly surprised how much it helps me as well. I’m sorry to hear you’ve struggled with these very difficult issues as well. Keep sharing your testimony! You will definitely touch lives.
Candace my friend you have been through so much, and yet your writing and message is so hopeful. Thank you for that.
What a beautiful complement, Jen. Thank you so much, my friend.
Not that struggles don’t come to everyone, but I think discouragement might be even more tempting for people who seem to have it all, if they are still left feeling empty and alone in their struggles. It can leave people with an “Is this all there is?” feeling.
That is such a great point, Donna. Thank you for sharing it here. I know when I’ve lost a lot of weight before, I’ve had similar feelings. We sometimes think weight loss, money, … will fix the other issues and feelings we struggle with when in reality, they will not.