Mental Health Matters
- Jul 28, 2025
- 18 min read
Updated: Jan 16
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Who Even Am I?
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If you met me today, you'd see I'm a completely different person compared to a few months ago. I might look the same, but I've gone through some big changes inside that touch every part of my life. Learning to love myself more has led to better self-care, acceptance, and empowerment. Now, I'm making choices that show my self-worth and living more authentically.
My eating habits have improved a lot; I'm eating healthier and taking care of my body. I've swapped out sugary snacks for healthier options that fit my health goals, and trying new recipes has brought some exciting flavors into my life.
I used to get stuck in self-doubt and bad habits, but now I'm way more confident and self-aware, understanding how important mental and emotional health is alongside physical well-being. Daily mindfulness and gratitude help me celebrate small wins and progress. Each day brings chances to grow, changing how I see life and the future. I'm focused on becoming a better version of myself, enjoying the journey, and looking forward to what's next.
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When I first started out as a school nurse, I wasn't totally sure what my job was all about. But that uncertainty actually helped me discover what I love and what I'm meant to do. Facing my own challenges made me tougher and sparked a real desire to help others going through similar stuff. My experiences with mental health have really boosted my empathy and made me appreciate the caregiver-patient connection so much more. These challenges have shaped how I approach things, letting me create a supportive environment for students and really understand their feelings. My journey has set me up to be a source of hope, cheering others on through tough times.
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This song reminds us of how we become different people after going through difficult periods.
Memphis May Fire - "Misery"
The song really resonated with me, highlighting how tough times shape us. Personal struggles, relationship issues, and outside pressures all build character and guide us on our journey. How we deal with challenges, influenced by our attitude and mindset, impacts where we end up.
Staying positive helps us grow and become more resilient. For instance, a career setback might lead us to discover new passions and become more self-aware, aligning us with who we truly are. Tough times also make us more empathetic and help us form supportive connections that enrich our lives with shared wisdom.
If we only focus on the negatives, it can hold us back. By acknowledging our feelings and looking for growth opportunities, we can find fulfillment. Balancing pain with growth turns challenges into lessons for the future.
Ultimately, how we interpret and handle life's challenges greatly affects our well-being. A positive outlook helps us navigate life's ups and downs gracefully, turning pain into strength and struggles into stepping stones, enhancing our lives and inspiring others to grow too.
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What Brings You Joy?
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Want to feel happier? Try mixing mindfulness, meditation, creativity, and nature into your daily life. Mindfulness keeps you grounded, meditation clears your head, creativity lets you express yourself, and nature brings peace and a chance to reflect.
Find happiness by figuring out what truly matters to you, having meaningful conversations, and seeking advice. Volunteering or mentoring can align with your values, bringing you fulfillment and joy.
If you enjoy helping others, consider volunteering at places like nurseries, hospitals, nursing homes, or animal shelters. Choose a role that gives you a sense of purpose and motivation.
See challenges as opportunities to grow. Follow your passions, help those in need, and fill your life with joy and purpose.
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Negative “Nancy”
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I used to be pretty down, hanging out with people who were the same, which just made everything feel toxic. We’d complain a lot instead of actually fixing problems. It really messed with my mindset and relationships, keeping me stuck.
Now, I get how important it is to be around positive, inspiring folks. Focusing on solutions and staying positive is key for growth, and I've learned to really value constructive chats.
I've found friends who lift my spirits, creating a supportive space where we share struggles and motivate each other. Empathy and positivity together make for a nurturing vibe, showing how much our social circles affect our mental health.
Looking back at old friendships, I realized how negativity used to drown out the positivity, which reinforced my commitment to a mindset focused on growth and resilience.
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We are Different People
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I realized that my upbeat vibe didn't really mesh with other people's negativity, so I decided to take a step back from those who were always pessimistic. Instead, I focused on creating positive connections. I learned how to set boundaries to protect my emotional well-being and sought out friendships that energized and uplifted me. This shift totally changed how I see meaningful relationships and gave me the boost I needed to embrace positivity, improving my life in unexpected ways.
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A Reason to Change
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These experiences made me think about my friendships and picking people who really click with the new version of me. I figured out how important it is to stay positive and be choosy about who we let in so they're supportive.
I often wondered if people saw me like Wednesday Addams, with her dark humor and gothic style. My personality sometimes created barriers, leading to misunderstandings. My serious side might have shaped how others saw me, kind of like Wednesday's unique but misunderstood vibe.
I'm into the unusual, and my dark humor might have turned off those who didn’t get it. Now that I know myself better, I can see how my vibe might have seemed unapproachable. Our quirks shape how people see us, sometimes causing misunderstandings. My thoughtful nature might have come off as distance, affecting potential friendships.
Thinking about these times, I feel better knowing everyone has their own struggles. My intense side might just be my way of dealing with inner battles, which helps me be more empathetic and patient in relationships. By embracing life's emotional ups and downs, I really appreciate authenticity and see our differences as strengths. This journey has taught me how crucial it is to create deeper connections beyond just surface-level judgments, leading to real understanding and acceptance.
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Find Your People
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When we're kids, making friends is easy because we're so curious. But as we grow up, life experiences can lead to misunderstandings and emotional bumps in the road.
Looking back, I noticed how negativity got to me. Constant criticism chipped away at my confidence, turning me cynical and making me pull back from others.
This mindset put a strain on my relationships, pushing me to heal and reconnect. It showed me how we're all connected and how our emotions affect those we care about.
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Down the Rabbit Hole I Go
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Negative thoughts can really mess with your mental health. They might start small but can quickly grow into overwhelming feelings. However, with some support and kindness, you can slowly shift to a more positive mindset. It takes time, understanding, and effort. Techniques like mindfulness, journaling, and doing things you love can be super helpful. The journey has its ups and downs, but it helps you grow, turning challenges into opportunities and building resilience. Every day is a new chance to practice positivity and embrace hope.
Bring me the Horizon - “Drown”
I was all over the place emotionally, swinging between happy and sad as each day brought its own highs and lows. Even when I had a fresh start, I often found myself hesitating, unsure of my true feelings. My mind was a jumble, weighed down by pressures from both inside and out, making it hard to live the chill life I wanted. It felt like I was walking a tightrope, trying to find the balance to handle my inner world with confidence.
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My feelings have been a big part of my journey, teaching me to be strong and focus on myself, which has made me more aware and thankful for life's ups and downs.
Connecting with others has been great because sharing experiences with friends and family has given me comfort and validation. It really shows how important community is for healing, building deep connections, and feeling like you belong.
In the end, these feelings have really pushed me to grow and change. They've helped me see things differently and get to know myself and the world better. They've made me tougher and helped me realize how important every emotion is in my journey.
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Move Toward the Light
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At first, my negative attitude was really getting my husband down, making him even more exhausted from everything he'd already been through. I was so wrapped up in the problems that it was messing with how we got along, and it felt like we were stuck in a bad cycle. But then I decided to shake things up and started looking at life more positively by being grateful and reflecting on myself. This change caught my husband off guard, and he wasn't sure if it was for real. Even though our friends and family were a bit skeptical, I kept up with mindfulness and surrounding myself with positive vibes. Slowly but surely, my husband started to see things differently too, and we began having more meaningful talks, which really helped our family life. Over time, we all got on board with this positive approach, which improved our relationships and made us stronger. It wasn't easy, but this journey showed us how positivity can spread and strengthen our connections, creating a more supportive and hopeful atmosphere.
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Priorities
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A few weeks back, I realized I'd blown about $1,200 on online games since the year started—cash that could've gone towards a vacation. This habit not only drained my wallet but also messed with my work, as I kept putting off important stuff. A nudge from my boss about hitting deadlines made me rethink my priorities and find a better balance between fun and responsibilities.
So, I started a blog all about mental health advocacy, something I'm super passionate about. My experience in a psychiatric hospital made me realize just how important support is. Through my blog, I aim to share stories, raise awareness, and create a space for open conversations about mental health. I want to inspire others to advocate, break the stigma, and promote kindness and support for mental well-being. This platform is all about encouraging readers to share their stories, seek help, and push for mental health awareness. Together, we can work towards giving mental health the same attention as physical health.
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Working as a nurse at an elementary school totally changed my life, starting me on a path of growth and self-discovery. The kids' vibrant energy brought me so much happiness and helped me find a career that really suited me at that time. Every day had its own set of challenges and rewards as I ensured the students stayed healthy and safe, allowing them to learn and explore. This job let me make a real difference and fueled my passion for caring for others. Moments like comforting a kid with a scraped knee really highlighted how important my role was in their development.
## How My Role Has Changed Me
This experience was way more than just a job; it was a life-changing adventure that really shaped who I am. It gave me a strong sense of purpose and responsibility. Hanging out with the kids, their families, and coworkers created a supportive community that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I learned how important it is to be empathetic, patient, and resilient, and I worked on these skills every day. Every smile, thank you, and challenge reminded me why I was there.
The kids, without even knowing it, were like guiding lights during tough times. Their laughter and curiosity brought back my passion for life, showing me the beauty of simplicity and positivity. The teachers, parents, and staff made me feel like I belonged and helped me embrace my true self, guiding me toward a meaningful path.
## Creating a Team Spirit
At our school, teaming up with others created a super supportive vibe for learning and growing, which really shaped my choices and dreams through some amazing interactions. I'm really grateful for the yearbook that holds memories of the people who were part of my journey, capturing all the laughs, friendships, and shared lessons that keep us connected and influenced my path.
## How That Experience Stuck with Me
The yearbook isn't just about the photos; it's a reminder of all the experiences and friendships that made my life better, teaching me compassion and kindness. It's full of fun times and personal growth from working with kids, with each picture and note telling a story of connection and resilience. My time as a nurse at the elementary school was a real game-changer, inspiring me to lift others up, just like the kids and my coworkers did for me. The laughter, shared experiences, and strong sense of community still remind me of the awesome journey that started in that lively school setting.
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Bipolar?
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There was a time when folks thought I had bipolar disorder because I'd go from being super productive to just pulling back and keeping to myself. This confused and worried people around me because of stereotypes about mental health. It made me question if the bipolar label really fit. The lack of understanding about mental health led to a lot of misunderstandings, and even though my friends and family tried to help, their advice often didn't quite hit the spot. A lot of people I knew were also dealing with mental health stuff but didn't know how to talk about it, which led to oversimplifying things that were actually pretty complex.
The stigma around mental health made it tough to talk openly, leaving me feeling alone and misunderstood. This really showed me how important it is to have informed and caring conversations about mental health, where we can share our stories without judgment and support each other. The bipolar label often overshadowed my personal experiences, as society's habit of putting people in boxes led to an oversimplified view of my situation, ignoring things like stress and life events. This misunderstanding affected how others saw me and how I saw myself, making me feel inadequate and confused.
Understanding my emotions involved some self-reflection and teaching those around me to help them have a more caring and informed perspective on mental health.
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The Shift
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Shifting to a positive mindset takes time, patience, and effort. It's all about recognizing and challenging those old thought patterns from our past. Progress happens little by little, with small wins and setbacks helping us learn and grow.
At first, those nagging negative thoughts can feel like a lot to handle, showing up as self-doubt or anxiety. But by acknowledging and questioning them, we can swap them out for positive ones using reflection, reframing, and affirmations.
In the end, changing your mindset is about embracing the journey, building resilience, and being kind to yourself. Celebrating the small wins makes life richer, brings hope, and sets the stage for a brighter future, boosting overall happiness and well-being.
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Experiences Vary for Everyone
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I often felt like the odd one out because I was genuinely happy at work, while my coworkers seemed frustrated. I'd wake up excited, seeing every task as a chance to grow and be creative, which I found super fulfilling. Positive interactions and little wins gave me a real sense of purpose.
After work, I'd feel good about what I'd achieved, but evenings brought negativity, clashing with my daytime joy. This left me confused, trying to balance the highs from work with the lows at home.
I looked for ways to keep that work positivity going in my personal life, exploring routines and hobbies that gave me a sense of accomplishment. My journey included mindfulness, journaling, and staying active to bridge the gap between my two worlds, helping me understand my feelings and keep the positivity I valued so much.
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Life's ups and downs can sometimes feel like bipolar disorder, but it's important to know the difference between regular mood swings and the more intense ones that come with bipolar disorder. These intense swings can disrupt your daily life and need professional attention. Understanding this difference helps you manage your emotions better.
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Decision Making
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The Profound Lessons of Life's Small Experiences
It's funny how the little things in life can teach us big lessons. Just think about touching a hot stove—ouch! That really makes you more careful next time, right? But even when we know better, we still sometimes mess up, showing how we tend to ignore what we've learned. The choices we make can affect others emotionally, reminding us of the impact we have and the responsibility we carry. These experiences help shape how we make decisions and take responsibility, teaching us empathy, foresight, and how everything's connected. It's all part of becoming more aware, compassionate, and responsible people.
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Shockwave
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## How We Affect the People Around Us
Ever thought about the vibe you give off to the people around you? Are you aiming to make a positive impact or not so much? This really makes us consider how we affect others in our daily interactions and how our actions can shape their experiences and feelings. We might not always notice it, but every little encounter, no matter how brief, can leave a lasting mark on someone else's life.
## How Our Actions Create a Ripple Effect
What we do and how we act really set the vibe we give off. When we're negative, it shows up as criticism, disdain, or pessimism, creating a tense atmosphere and affecting those around us. Even a single harsh comment can stick with someone, impacting how they see themselves and the world. This negativity doesn't just stay with us—it spreads to our community through interactions filled with harsh words, dismissive attitudes, or negative body language. Such vibes can create a negative culture, affecting social gatherings, workplaces, and even random encounters with strangers, often leaving others feeling unwelcome or anxious. This can kick off a cycle of negativity, where the people affected start behaving the same way.
### The Cycle of Negativity
When negativity starts spreading, it sets off a domino effect where bad vibes just keep piling up, stifling creativity, teamwork, and happiness. When folks feel stuck in a negative environment, it's harder for them to interact positively with others, making everyone feel down. Picture a workplace filled with constant criticism. Employees might end up feeling bummed and checked out, leading to less productivity and innovation. This negative loop not only drags down individual spirits but also slows down the progress of teams and communities.
### Choosing Positivity
Sharing kindness and good vibes can seriously make a big impact, setting off a chain reaction that boosts everyone and builds a stronger community. Just by tossing out compliments, offering a hand, or giving a smile, you can totally make someone's day and inspire them to pass on the good vibes. Being caring and understanding helps create supportive spaces where relationships and communities can really thrive. Our positive energy can motivate others, creating a positive culture that makes life more awesome and helps people feel safe and valued. This encourages them to be themselves and go after their dreams without worrying about being judged.
### Owning Up to Our Impact
Let's make a positive impact in our community because what we do really counts for others. Being aware of how we affect people helps everyone grow, feel happier, and be more respectful. When we spread good vibes, we spark change, improve our lives, and help our community thrive, leaving behind a legacy of kindness. Our influence is strong, and using it wisely can make the world a more harmonious place.
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Create Positive Interactions
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Stop the Negative Self-Talk
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I've been working on talking to myself more positively to help with my mental health and well-being. Negative thoughts can mess with my mood and how I interact with others, so I try to steer clear of them for my own sake and for my relationships.
When I'm stressed, I smoke weed to chill out, but I'm aware of the risks involved.
The other day, my son killed an orb weaver spider, which upset me because I'm a big fan of nature. It reminded me how important it is to teach empathy and respect for all living things.
My husband sent me a text saying he's not excited about our Europe trip, and it made me realize how our shared stress can affect us. Even though I try to stay positive, outside pressures and emotional triggers remind me how important it is to be resilient and understand emotions within my family.
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Upcoming European Family Vacation
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That message really messed with my head, making me doubt and worry. It's crazy how one negative thought can spiral and impact everyone on the trip. My oldest is super sensitive and full of energy, so I need to keep things upbeat. This trip isn't just about exploring a new place; it's a chance to bond and create awesome family memories. If negativity takes over, it'll ruin the experience for me and the kids. I want them to have fun and be amazed by everything without my worries holding them back. This trip should be all about happiness and discovery, so I need to focus on the joy of being together and turn any negativity into strength and resilience for all of us.
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It’s Just So Expensive
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Traveling can cost a bit, but the experiences and memories make it totally worth it. We originally planned this trip for winter 2020 but had to put it off. Now's the perfect time to go, and my 16-year-old son, who couldn't come with us before, is all set to join. Seeing him dive into new cultures will be a great lesson in responsibility and adaptability. This trip will open his mind and bring our family closer, giving us memories we'll always treasure.
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There'll Still Be Arguments and Stressful Times
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I'm really stressed about how much a trip to Europe will cost, even though it should be exciting. Instead of looking forward to the amazing historic sites, food, and culture, I'm worried about the possible hiccups, especially with my oldest, who tends to stir up some tension. It makes me wonder why family vacations aren't more about bonding and making awesome memories.
Spending money on a trip that might turn chaotic is a bit of a downer. I wish we could just travel without the drama, enjoying each other's company without any behavior issues turning an awesome trip into a stressful one.
I picture us wandering around Paris, taking in the Eiffel Tower, or checking out the German Christmas markets, but then I worry about my kids fighting or my eldest acting out and ruining these moments. I just want us to soak in Europe's culture and sights without the fear of arguments.
In the end, I just want us to be happy together and make some great memories. I dream of candid family photos filled with smiles. As we plan this trip, I hope to bring my kids closer, encouraging them to enjoy the adventure together.
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Lists
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Songs about HOPE!!
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You Are Not Alone
Depression/Suicide/Suicidal Ideation
Books 📚
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Songs 🎤
Asking Alexandria - "Psycho"
Asking Alexandria - "Dark Void"
Asking Alexandria - "Antisocialist"
Pink = "Just Like A Pill"
Asking Alexandria - "Into the Fire"
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Movies/Shows/Documentaries 🍿
Girl, Interupted
My Suicide
Veronika Decides to Die
Stay
Prayers For Bobby
Everything Sucks
Prozac Nation
Gia
The Uninvited
Wrist Cutters: A Love Story
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (One of my favs!)
Secretary
Show me Love
Degrassi: The Next Generation
Euphoria
Black-ish
*********************** Anxiety:
Books
Songs
Movies/Shows/Documentaries
Benchwarmers
Normal People
Ted Lasso
Movies/Shows/Documentaries
Us
Fight Club
Secret Cutting
Thirteen
Crush
Ashley
Chatroom
We Need to Talk About Kevin
Daydream Nation
The Craft
Gone Girl
Speak
Secret Window
Taking Lives
American Beauty
A Beautiful Mind
The Movie
In My Skin
Manic
The Loved Ones
Shame
Norman
Downloading Nancy
American Horror Story: Season 2
Pretty Little Liars
Ginny and Georgia
Spinning Out
Sex Education
Bojack Horseman
Crazy Ex-girlfriend
Most of the movies on my list came from here
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Quotes
“Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.”
“It’s okay not to be okay.”
“You are not your mental illness.”
“Your struggles do not define you.”
“Taking care of your mental health is an act of self-love.”
“You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind.”
“There is no shame in seeking help for your mental health.”
“It’s okay to take a break and prioritize your mental health.”
“You are not alone in your struggles.”
“It’s okay to ask for support when you need it.”
”Mental health is not a destination, it’s a journey.”
“Your mental health matters more than any external validation.”
“Healing is not linear, but it is possible.”
“You are stronger than you realize.”
“Your mental health journey is unique to you.”
“Self-care is not selfish, it’s necessary for good mental health.”
“Small steps can lead to big progress in mental health.”
“You are capable of overcoming your mental health challenges.”
“Mental illness is not a personal failure, it’s a medical condition.”
“Your mental health should not be stigmatized.”
You are deserving of a life free from mental health struggles.”
“Your mental health journey may be difficult, but it’s worth it.”
“You are not weak for struggling with mental health issues.”
“It’s okay to take medication for your mental health.”
“You are not a burden for seeking help for your mental health.”
“Mental health issues do not make you any less of a person.”
“Your mental health is just as important as your career or education.”
“You are capable of managing your mental health and living a fulfilling life.”
“You have the power to overcome your mental health challenges.”
“It’s okay to take time to focus on your mental health.”
“You are deserving of love and compassion, especially from yourself.”
“Your mental health struggles do not define your future.”
“It’s okay to prioritize your mental health over other commitments.”
“You are not alone in your journey towards better mental health.”
“You are not your thoughts or emotions.”
“You are capable of creating a positive mindset and outlook on life.”
“Mental health recovery is possible, and it starts with seeking help.”
“You are worthy of a life filled with joy and happiness.”
“It’s okay to have bad days and ask for support when you need it.”
”You have the power to change your relationship with your mental health.”
“Your mental health journey may be a lifelong process, but it’s worth it.”
“You are capable of breaking free from negative thought patterns.”
“Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to overall wellness.”
“You have the power to choose how you respond to your mental health challenges.”
“It’s okay to take time to rest and recharge when you’re feeling overwhelmed.”
“You are not alone in your struggles, even if it feels that way.”
“Mental health is a journey of self-discovery and growth.”
“You are worthy of receiving support and love, even on your toughest days.”
“It’s okay to set boundaries to protect your mental health.”
“You are capable of creating a life filled with purpose and meaning, despite your mental health challenges.”
All quotes came from here
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