"Healing is possible" – Sara’s story

A stock photo and alias has been used on this blog at the request of the author. 

In this blog, Sara reflects on the impact depression had on her wellbeing, relationships, education and home life. Although it was hard to open up initially, Sara has now found helpful support and peace in her surroundings.

Living with depression felt like losing myself in a fog where joy seemed distant and every step became a struggle. My experience was marked by persistent sadness and a diminishing interest in activities that once brought me happiness. The first encounter with depression was bewildering, leaving me feeling different and broken. It was as if I had stepped into an unfamiliar world, where the colours of life had dulled.

Depression's impact extended beyond my inner world, affecting my relationships, home life, and education. I withdrew from relationships, stopped putting in effort and grew irritable. Close friends noticed the change and expressed concern, but I couldn't find the words to explain what was happening within me. Academically, my motivation diminished and my grades suffered. At home, what was once peaceful became chaotic, with frequent emotional breakdowns affecting not just me but those around me.

Seeking support required courage. I vividly remember the day I mustered the strength to talk to my school counsellor, who recognised the severity of my struggles and was also connected to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). Opening up about my inner turmoil was daunting, but realising that what I felt was not uncommon provided a glimmer of hope.

Getting help, both in understanding my feelings and in practical ways, was really important. Talking to someone every week in therapy became a big help, giving me a safe place to figure out my thoughts and feelings. I also started doing things every day to take care of my mental health. Exercise became a way to let out built-up emotions, and writing in a journal helped me express my thoughts and see how I was getting better.

As the weeks turned into months, my life began to transform. Therapy sessions guided me towards resilience, helping me build coping mechanisms and a deeper understanding of myself. Things got better in my relationships and home life. We started understanding each other by talking more and now there's a peaceful feeling.

To those facing mental health struggles for the first time, I offer this advice: prioritise your well-being. Take care of yourself mentally, spiritually, physically and emotionally. Reach out for support – healing is possible and you're not alone. In the process of getting better, things might begin quietly like a soft tune. But over time and with strength, it can turn into a strong song of success.