I want to be very honest about my journey with yoga and mental health. I had severe thyroid problems starting in late 2006 that lasted through 2008. This caused extreme anxiety and depression. Panic attacks were common and my depression was so severe I did not want to live. I had always lived with depression and anxiety, but this made it unbearable. I could not function like a healthy 20 something should.
I sought treatment from different doctors from endocrinologists to psychiatrists and everything in between. At one point, I was on so many medications I honestly couldn’t remember them all if I tried. I basically became a zombie. I decided that nothing was working and I knew I couldn’t take my own life so the next step was hospitalization. I went to the National Institute of Health to participate in some research studies. The hope was that after the research portion was over, those brilliant doctors would help me get on the right track. The good news was they were able to get me off the bulk of the medications I was on. The bad news is they also couldn’t find the right drug to help me.
So I came back to Lincoln and found a holistic nurse practitioner that did things a bit differently. She offered prescription medications, therapy, and natural supplements for treatment. I finally began to feel better. I was finally well enough that I could start proactively doing things for myself and my health. I began practicing yoga and that gave me the tools to cope with my anxiety and depression. I was able to get off all the medications I was taking. Occasionally if I feel like I’m getting a little depressed, especially in the winter, I’ll take 5-HTP (a supplemental mood booster).
Why am I sharing this? Well, for one, I want you to know that there is no shame in taking medications. If that is what your mind or body needs to be well, then it’s crucial and important to your health. Secondly, yoga can work for some people, but it’s not an end all cure all. There are many components to health. I hope that you are able to find a doctor if you need one that you can talk to and trust so that you can work together to find the best treatment for you. I truly believe we can stop the stigma associated with mental illness if we are open about our struggles. There is no shame in asking for or seeking help.
You are not broken. You are enough. You are loved.
And one last thing, if you are thinking of taking your life, please reach out. If you don’t feel comfortable telling your loved ones, the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255.
Fostered Wellness 