Lauren

My why

As a teenager and into adult years I have lived with mental health issues , including anxiety, depression and more recently being diagnosed with CPTSD. 

In my younger years I battled with addiction issues and it was until I got ontop of that , I realised I needed to get a better understanding of who I was. 

I spent many years focusing on my mental, emotional and physical health whilst connecting to culture. I’ve realised the importance of connection to self first and foremost and recognised the value of a life of balance. 

Our mind is very powerful and our thoughts and feelings are valid. Learning to sit with my own thoughts has been very therapeutic for my own journey.  

Whilst having a strong community around me has been powerful I’ve learned to embrace all the parts of me that make me who I am, and to honour myself, and to embrace my journey, and to celebrate my growth. 

I’ve also seen the effect of mental health battles for people I deeply love and also for our communities. 

I think we can all underestimate the value of reaching out and talking to someone we trust in our darker days.  One conversation can really change the trajectory of our lives. 

I hope this experience I am embarking on may start those sometimes hard conversations for those struggling or live with mental health issues, and to help them know you are not alone

As a mum of three beautiful kids I can see the challenges youth face growing up in todays society and I realise that statistically one of my children will likely have challenges of their own.  I hope to also support and encourage my kids to feel safe to talk to those they love if they ever feel like life’s getting a bit hard.. without shame or judgement 

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