generate a transformative journey: from breaking point to breakthrough
Written on
Chapter 1: The Impact of Loss
As I pen down my thoughts, I find myself nearly five years since the passing of my mother, an event that significantly impacted my mental health. Despite being a mental health therapist, my innate desire to support others often led me to neglect my own needs. Unbeknownst to me, this tendency would come at a steep cost.
The spring of 2020 saw the onset of COVID-19, which flipped our world upside down. Schools shuttered, businesses ceased operations, recreational activities were halted, and we all found ourselves confined to our homes. Faced with this unprecedented stillness, I was unprepared for the mental toll it would take on me.
During this period, I experienced my first panic attack—an unsettling revelation for someone who routinely assists those grappling with anxiety and depression. This time, however, I was the one in crisis. So, what does one do when confronted with a lack of distractions?
You confront your inner turmoil. All those feelings you've sidelined—hurt, disappointment, anger, resentment, regret, sadness—surface and demand your attention. As dreadful as the pandemic was, it served as an unexpected blessing, compelling me to slow down and tend to myself. It provided an opportunity to grieve my mother, a process I'd long neglected. Unfortunately, my moments of self-realization came too late.
For years, I had overlooked my emotional and physical well-being, prioritizing the needs of others over my own. This neglect culminated in a significant health crisis, leading to emergency surgery in the summer of 2021. My perpetual busyness had masked the necessity of self-care, resulting in a complete breakdown.
Have you found yourself in a similar situation? Are you avoiding self-care under the guise of being "busy"? Let me assure you, if you don’t prioritize self-care voluntarily, life will eventually force you to make it a priority.
Spending three weeks in the hospital shifted my perspective on life. Since that time, I've committed to being more deliberate about my self-care, especially regarding my mental health.
Don't wait for a crisis to prompt you into self-care. Make the conscious choice now. Begin to prioritize your well-being; you’ll be grateful you did!
If you found this article insightful and wish to explore more resources on prioritizing your mental health and wellness, please click here. Thank you.
Section 1.1: The First Panic Attack
The experience of my first panic attack was surreal. I had always assisted others in navigating through their anxiety, but facing it myself was a different challenge.
Chapter 2: Embracing Self-Care
Your Breaking Point Is Your Breakthrough Point - Bishop T.D. Jakes
In this inspiring talk, Bishop T.D. Jakes emphasizes how our lowest points can lead to transformative breakthroughs, encouraging us to view struggles as opportunities for growth.
Breaking Point | Sarah Jakes Roberts
Sarah Jakes Roberts shares her perspective on breaking points, illustrating how confronting personal challenges can lead to profound self-discovery and healing.