I GOT CAUGHT AGAIN: Navigating the Return of Mental Health Challenges

In the fast-paced world of business and entrepreneurship, we often celebrate the hustle, the grind, and the relentless pursuit of success. But today, I want to talk about something we don't discuss enough: the toll this lifestyle can take on our mental health, and the ongoing struggle to find balance and healing.

The Relapse

After months of progress, of feeling like I had finally gotten a handle on my mental health, I found myself caught again in the grip of anxiety and depression. It hit me unexpectedly, like a wave crashing over me just when I thought I had learned to swim. Watching someone else's hustling success triggered feelings I thought I had overcome, and suddenly, six months of healing seemed to evaporate in an instant.

This relapse brought with it all the familiar symptoms: sleepless nights, panic attacks, and a pervasive fear of how others might perceive or treat me. The world once again felt overwhelming, and the strategies I had learned seemed momentarily out of reach.

The Cost of Ambition

Looking back, I can see how I got here. I gave everything I had to my career - my time, my energy, my very essence. In the pursuit of success, I neglected the most important asset I have: myself. It's a common story in our achievement-oriented culture, but one that needs to be told more often.

The irony is palpable. In trying to build a life of meaning and impact, I inadvertently undermined the very foundation of that life - my mental and emotional wellbeing. The hustle culture that permeates our professional world often glorifies this kind of self-sacrifice, but at what cost?

The Journey Back

Recognizing that I was struggling again was the first step. It's never easy to admit when we're not okay, especially when we've tasted recovery before. But acknowledging the problem is crucial for getting the help we need.

Here are some of the steps I'm taking to find my way back:

1. Seeking Professional Help: I've returned to psychiatric care. There's no shame in needing expert guidance, and I'm grateful for the support of mental health professionals who can offer both medication management and therapeutic strategies.
2. Prioritizing Sleep: I've learned that sleep is not a luxury, but a necessity. I'm allowing myself to sleep longer, recognizing that rest is a crucial component of mental health recovery.
3. Reading and Learning: I've immersed myself in books about mental health, personal development, and stories of others who have navigated similar challenges. Knowledge is empowering, and understanding more about what I'm experiencing helps me feel less alone.
4. Simplifying Life: I'm taking a hard look at my commitments and responsibilities, and finding ways to simplify. This means saying no more often, delegating where possible, and focusing on what truly matters.
5. Helping Others: Surprisingly, one of the most healing activities has been helping women who have limited business knowledge. Sharing my expertise not only gives me a sense of purpose but also reminds me of how far I've come in my own journey.

The Reality of Recovery

I want to be clear: recovery is not a linear process. It's filled with ups and downs, progress and setbacks. Some days are better than others. There are still sleepless nights, moments of panic, and times when the fear of others' judgment feels overwhelming.

But I'm learning to be patient with myself. To recognize that healing takes time, and that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. I'm also learning to celebrate the good days without fearing that they're temporary, and to endure the bad days with the knowledge that they, too, shall pass.

Rethinking the Hustle

One of the most significant changes I'm making is reevaluating my relationship with hustle culture. For so long, I believed that constant work and sacrifice were the keys to success. Now, I'm questioning that narrative.

I'm slowly calling off from the always-on, always-working mindset. Instead, I'm trying to figure out what's best for me - not just for my career, but for my overall wellbeing. This means setting boundaries, taking breaks without guilt, and defining success on my own terms.

It's not an easy transition. The fear of falling behind or missing opportunities is real. But I'm coming to understand that true success includes mental and emotional wellbeing. A thriving career built on the foundation of poor mental health is a house of cards, ready to collapse at any moment.

The Power of Vulnerability

Sharing this story isn't easy. There's still a stigma around mental health issues, particularly in professional circles. But I believe that vulnerability has power. By sharing our struggles, we create space for others to do the same. We chip away at the facade of perfection that social media and professional networking often demand.

Moreover, I hope that by sharing my journey, I can reach others who might be silently struggling. If you're reading this and recognizing yourself in these words, know that you're not alone. Your struggles don't define you, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Moving Forward

As I navigate this latest chapter in my mental health journey, I'm holding onto a few key truths:

1. Recovery is possible: Even when it feels like we've lost ground, healing is always possible. Each day is a new opportunity to take care of ourselves and move forward.
2. We are more than our productivity: Our worth isn't determined by how much we work or what we achieve. We are inherently valuable, simply because we exist.
3. Connections matter: Isolating ourselves often feels safer, but connection - to friends, family, professionals, or support groups - is crucial for healing.
4. Self-compassion is key: We need to treat ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we would offer a friend going through a tough time.
5. Our stories have power: By sharing our experiences, we not only heal ourselves but also create ripples of awareness and change in our communities.

A Request and an Offer

As I continue on this journey, I ask for your understanding and patience. There may be times when I'm not as responsive or productive as I'd like to be. Know that I'm doing my best, and that your support means more than you can know.

I also want to extend an offer: if you're struggling with similar issues, or if you simply need someone to talk to, my inbox is open. While I'm not a mental health professional, I can offer a listening ear and a shared understanding of the challenges you might be facing.

Finally, I ask for your prayers, positive thoughts, or good vibes - whatever aligns with your beliefs. The road ahead isn't easy, but I believe that with support, persistence, and self-compassion, we can all find our way to better mental health.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. May we all find the strength to prioritize our wellbeing, to support each other, and to create a professional culture that values mental health as much as it does achievement.

#MentalHealthAwareness #ProfessionalGrowth #Vulnerability #SelfCare #WorkLifeBalance