Diana
Diana
Recognize your own true power as an individual
People with mental health disorders do not need to be ‘tamed’ or ‘fixed.’ They need to be understood. From there, the work can be done to lead a successful and functioning life.
Although she is only in her early 20s, Diana has deep insights into the challenges facing those with mental health conditions. Through her book, Diana is sharing her experiences, her lessons learned, and her hopes for those who struggle.
The goal of my book is to deconstruct and debunk the stigmas around mental health.
Therefore, I am inspired to continue and enhance my journey by sharing my story.
Diana’s story began when she was in preschool. As a child, she often experienced social and separation anxiety. Over the years, she developed several cases of strep throat.
In 6th grade, Diana contracted the swine flu, which led to a diagnosis of pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS).
The PANDAS diagnosis did not come easily, as it was not a familiar term or confirmed mental health condition.
After the swine flu, I experienced anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, anorexia, nervous ticks, and signs of depression.
Diana began treatment at age 11, but it was not until she was a junior in high school that she found a therapist she “clicked with.”
My therapist really helped me overcome my conditions and build a toolbox of strategies that would help me in the long term as I continuously experience symptoms from these chronic disorders.
“I would say to never give up in finding the correct therapist. It might take a while and you might feel like you are ‘speed dating’ through therapists, but your person is out there.”
Diana understands how difficult it can be for someone with a mental health disorder to find the right therapist and the right treatment approach.
Although I have a fantastic therapist and psychiatrist, doing the self-work and showing up for myself even when it is uncomfortable and scary is one of the main components that distinguish the divide between getting help and having the help be successful.
I would say to never give up in finding the correct therapist. It might take a while and you might feel like you are ‘speed dating’ through therapists, but your person is out there.
Diana knows that finding a therapist who is a good fit is essential, but she stresses the importance of self-reliance in recovery.
You as an individual are also your person, for you will consistently be there for yourself and will be one of the main crusaders leading the charge in fighting back against your personal mental health challenges.
In her book, Diana talks about her journey, including how she has worked to change her perspective on mental health.
She calls on others with mental health conditions to find the strength to turn negatives into positives.
It is important to do the work for yourself and recognize your own true power as an individual. Take the fear—take the discomfort—and go with it.
You absolutely are capable and able to conquer this and shape it to work for you and with you, not against you.
