Sunny Star Feature: Peace from Panic Writer

I had the wonderful opportunity to speak at the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) meeting for Ventura County. We talked all about the present state of the mental health crisis on college campus and how families can help their students with support and their own self-care. The audience asked SO many wonderful questions and it was clear that they cared about the topic.I met many incredible people that night and this blog writer (whose identity I will not reveal here for privacy reasons) was a standout. She is an exemplary woman who is not only advocating for herself and for her daughter, but for adolescents and young adults everywhere. I highly encourage you to check out her blog as it may be able to offer you such a space of support, education, and advocacy efforts:Here is her website here: https://peacefrompanic.wordpress.com/

1.      You've written a blog to provide support to others who might be experiencing some challenges with mental health. What motivated you to do this?

When I started my blog three years ago, I simply wanted to document my thoughts about helping my daughter recover from panic attacks. That journey greatly affected me because I knew how terrifying panic attacks were—I had recovered from agoraphobia and panic disorder.

I had no idea what to expect from blogging. I wasn’t sure anyone would even read what I wrote. It amazed me when my blog started to grow, and it felt great to know that what I said resonated with others. I spent so many years thinking I was alone. I realized there are millions of people who struggle with mental health conditions. The blogging community is so encouraging and supportive!

Through my blog, I’ve become a mental health advocate. I’ve learned that the more we talk about our challenges, the better the chance of helping others and lessening the stigma. Now I’m passionate about speaking out.

Writing and researching for my blog led me to learn about NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). I volunteer for them and present NAMI’s in-school mental health awareness program, “Ending the Silence.” I visit high schools and talk to students about the warning symptoms of mental health conditions and what to do if they notice those signs in themselves or a friend. It’s so rewarding to open the conversation with teens. I wish I would’ve known about mental illness when I was in high school. Maybe I would’ve reached out for help earlier.

Here is the website for more information about NAMI: https://www.nami.org/

2.      What advice do you have for those who may be having some struggles with their mental health?

First of all, know that mental illness is a real medical illness, just like a physical disease. It’s real and needs treatment. Having a mental health condition doesn’t mean you’re weak. It isn’t anyone’s fault for having mental illness. Even though it can be really hard to talk about, tell someone you trust and reach out for medical help. Recovery can be slow and difficult. Never give up! Know that there are millions of people who live with a mental health condition. You are not alone.

3.      How can parents and children work together or support one another in their mental health journey?

Listen to each other and don’t judge. If you feel like something isn’t right, something might not be right. Get medical help—the sooner, the better. Don’t ignore the warning signs or try to hide it. Stigma is strong and it can prevent someone from talking about how they feel. It took me about 20 years to finally get medical help.

When someone has anxiety, depression, or other behavioral mental health conditions, he or she can’t simply “snap out of it” or “get over it.” It isn’t that easy.

It can be hard for the person with the condition to describe how they feel. It’s especially difficult for children. For someone who has never experienced the symptoms, it can be nearly impossible to fully understand. Educate yourself to learn as much as possible to better understand what your loved one is going through. Let your loved one know that he or she can trust you and is safe with you.

4.      What do you do for self-care?

I love the quote, “Every single day, do something that makes your heart sing.” This can mean many different things to me. I used to think of self-care just as “me-time.” But it’s much more than that.

Exercise is the first thing that comes to mind, as it’s great for my mind and my body. I love going for walks and hikes in the mountains near my home. It’s wonderful to get out in nature, breathe in the fresh air, and take a break from technology.

I like to practice deep breathing and mindfulness—yoga and meditating are perfect for that, even if it’s just for ten minutes a day.

Self-care can also be going to church. Writing. Catching up with my sisters or friends. Laughing. Reading. Learning something new. Going to a museum. Baking and gardening, eating healthy and trying new recipes. Buying a new makeup product or getting my hair trimmed. Doing my nails. Volunteering. Or making time to relax with a cup of tea or coffee and read a magazine.

5.      Anything else that you'd like to share?

Remember that you’re not alone. Everyone is going through something, even if others can’t see it on the outside. Be kind to yourself!

 As you read this interview, can't you tell that she is just amazing? It's especially wonderful to see a parent encouraging help-seeking not only in her own life, but in her daughter's as well. This is such a reminder that we are never truly alone and help is there for us--we need only ask. Be the change you wish to see, friends!Keep shining,