Livia
Livia
Your disorder does not define you
The smash Broadway hit “Hamilton” energized audiences with its hip-hop approach to a historic tale. Despite its vibrant beat, the play actually had a calming effect on Livia.
It’s my favorite musical. When I’m entertained, like the way I am in the theater, I forget about my worries. It really helps relax me.
Livia was born in Vietnam and was adopted at the age of 2 by a Wisconsin couple, who she describes as “wonderful.” She had a normal, happy childhood up until middle school when anxiety started to creep into everyday life.
I became anxious about everything. I would worry about my grades at school and the health of my family.
I spent time ruminating about things completely out of my control.
She also developed obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), displaying an irrational fear of germs and contamination. The anxiety was so strong over the years that she experienced periods of paranoia.
I work at a department store to help with the cost of school. I would sometimes have thoughts that people were watching me and trying to get me fired.
These thoughts weren’t based on anything real. But they would roll around in my mind until I was convinced someone was plotting against me.
“I told her I didn’t need help. I was in denial. I thought that if I were diagnosed with a mental health condition, I’d be labeled as crazy. The stigma is so strong.”
Livia’s parents were the first ones to see how chronic worrying was affecting their daughter’s life. Her mother pleaded with her during high school to get help, but Livia resisted.
I told her I didn’t need help. I was in denial. I thought that if I were diagnosed with a mental health condition, I’d be labeled as crazy. The stigma is so strong.
Then, enter 2020 and a worldwide pandemic. As this mysterious and dangerous virus spread, Livia’s contamination-focused OCD worsened.
When her parents again asked her to seek help, this time she listened. She quickly found a therapist she adores and eventually was referred to an OCD specialist to further her treatment. Livia’s care team also includes a psychiatrist.
In a way, the introduction of COVID-19 was a perfect time to get help. Medical appointments all moved to telemedicine.
It made it much more convenient. I was less anxious about the sessions doing them from my bedroom.
Today, Livia takes medications to help control her anxiety, OCD, and paranoia—which was diagnosed as unspecified psychosis by mental health professionals. She also finds comfort with her two cats, Abigail and Jim, and her dog, Stella.
Livia’s mental health treatment is teaching her tools that can help calm her anxiety. Her outlook is optimistic.
While scheduling the first appointment may be a scary step, the nervousness will slowly fade away as the relationship between you and your therapist forms.
If you are dealing with a mental health issue, you are not alone. And seeking help is not a weakness.
Therapists have the experience and compassion to make things better. Their help can be life-changing.
