Hi loves! Today is world mental health day. If I were to be asked when I was initially diagnosed how does endometriosis affect your mental health? I would not have been able to give a complete and transparent answer. Even though I was crying daily and I couldn't even speak about it without sobbing. Endometriosis typically affects the hormones, yet oddly mines have remained stable. After every appointment I would cry badly on the ride home. Family and friends would assume things about my condition. Which only adds fuel to the fire. Especially if they don't ask, they just assume. Assuming it's your "hormones" when endometriosis affects many aspects of our lives. From our goals to day to day activities. Which can be detrimental to mental health. Causing anxiety and depression.
I experience both anxiety and depression as a result of my endometriosis. All of which I have battled years before being diagnosed surgically with stage 4 endometriosis. I began mediation, acupuncture, hypnotherapy and many other holistic forms of self-care. I began making time for myself, above all else. Later in my journey I began seeing a therapist, along with holistic practices. I fuse eastern and western practices. She helped me put a lot into perspective, and knew who were my genuine supporters. Just having her listen and guide me out of my negative self talk was healing. Throughout my healing journey, many did not want to hear what I was going through. Which led me to a deep depression. People get upset when you express whats on your mind. Which made me isolate myself.
My journey didn't just begin with food, I was also working on my mind. Which takes isolation, forgiveness, awareness, and self-love. I began to tune certain type of vibes out, and cultivate the ones that fed my soul. In this process, I had to not worry about people calling me weird or mean, for putting yourself first. Or for enjoying time alone. The same people critiquing and not understanding, have their own battles that they are still overcoming. This is a never ending process of becoming a better version of yourself. I never thought that endometriosis would led me to depression. I had to realize that I'd actually felt this way far to long. For example, on average it takes 8-10 years to get diagnosed with endometriosis. That would make anyone feel mentally exhausted and terrible. Searching for an answer or assistance for years, just to be told it's all in your head? I am still learning how to battle this sadness daily. It took years for me to understand how mental health played a role in endometriosis. I'm still learning everyday and I'm sharing my story in hopes that it will help someone to be better understood. So when you hear someone say, "check on your strong friend". Don't wait and regret it. Happy national world mental health day!
