A Decision That Saved My Life: Heart Health & Mental Wellness

Can you imagine the weight of a decision that determines life or death??

Six years ago, I faced such a decision when I underwent open heart surgery to address a congenital condition affecting my mitral valve. This valve, one of the heart's four crucial components, facilitates blood flow through the heart chambers. In my case, Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) led to complications, including heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and an enlarged heart.

Despite my background in treating anxiety disorders, I found myself ill-prepared and paralyzed when contemplating the necessity of this life-saving procedure.

I Froze.

Fear gripped me tightly, tinged with regret for the life I still wished to live. Amidst this emotional and physical distress, I made the difficult decision to cancel the surgery, succumbing to the fear of the medical procedure, later diagnosed as tomophobia.

With unwavering support from loved ones and the guidance of my medical team and therapist, I confronted the stark reality of surgery once more. Summoning the strength of my faith and confronting my fearlings (emotions and sensations that arise in response to fear)? head-on, I refused to be defined by fear. The surgery was successful, marking the beginning of a journey towards recovery and mental wellness.

Recovery was painful and often isolating, but amidst the silence, I rediscovered the power of meditation, prayer, and gratitude. Daily rituals became lifelines, anchoring me in a newfound sense of purpose. Through this journey, I came to understand the transformative power of habits.?They're the routines that chart our course and the stories we tell ourselves. I learned that habits are hardwired into our brains, forming neural pathways that guide our actions.

How does one shift from fearing the unknown to embracing it? My journey holds some answers. In embracing fear as part of my narrative, I found peace. Leaning into our fears can often help us to deal with them better. When we acknowledge and accept our fears, we can begin to understand them more deeply and explore their underlying causes. This process allows us to confront our fears in a constructive manner rather than avoiding or suppressing them. By embracing our fears, we can develop coping strategies, build resilience, and gradually reduce the intensity of our fear responses. Additionally, embracing fear can empower us to approach challenges with courage and confidence, leading to personal growth and transformation

As I share my story during Heart Awareness Month, I aim to shed light on the intersection of medical challenges and mental health. My experience wasn't just about surviving; it was about thriving. Daily workouts, a nutrient-rich diet, meditation, mindfulness, and gratitude became my rituals, my habits. And at the heart of it all, my connections with family, friends, and clients deepened.?

Here are five ways to support individuals navigating similar experiences:

• Cultivate a supportive network: Surround yourself with loved ones who can provide emotional support throughout the journey.
• Prioritize mental health: Incorporate mindfulness practices, therapy, and self-care into your daily routine to nurture emotional well-being.
• Educate yourself: Understand your condition and treatment options to feel empowered and informed.
• Practice gratitude: Even amidst challenges, finding moments of gratitude can provide solace and perspective.
• Seek professional guidance: Consult with mental health professionals who specialize in supporting individuals facing medical challenges to navigate complex emotions and fears.

Together, let us raise awareness and offer support to those navigating the delicate intersection of medical issues and mental health.

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