I always thought I was someone who could help others, not someone who needed help.
As a mental health professional, I have given many people difficult diagnoses. But I never thought that a diagnosis would affect me so deeply.
It happened in a meeting — there was a successful, influential man sitting in front of me. I told him the diagnosis and saw his eyes twitch. He almost broke down. It was like a punishment for him.
But at the same time, I felt an inner shock. I realized that I fit the same symptoms. I had felt this before, but at that moment it became absolutely clear.
I was caught between two identities — a professional and a human being who was fighting inside. And now I could not turn away from this truth.
I refused to accept this at first. I thought maybe I was wrong. Maybe there was some other reason. But no matter how much I tried to convince myself, I couldn’t escape the reality.
I thought back to my past – the boy who couldn’t sleep through the night, who never felt fit, who felt incomplete even when he was chasing his dreams, who always doubted himself and his abilities.
I didn’t need to change. He needed understanding. He needed compassion and affection. And most importantly, he needed me – a me who wouldn’t ignore myself anymore.
It took me many months to fully accept the diagnosis.
There was a time when I felt everything was fine, so I stopped taking medicines. I thought I would be able to take care of myself now. But the truth was that I was just suppressing everything. I was overreacting, I was shattered from within.
Slowly, I started understanding myself. I started noticing my moods, my patterns. I used to fight with myself every day. Fear, anger, anxiety — everything started to surface.
But then one day I decided — there was no running away. I started therapy again, took medication regularly, and most importantly, started talking.
I learned to identify my needs — connection, belonging, understanding. No more putting on a fake smile and pretending everything was okay.
Because “I’m okay” isn’t just an answer, it’s an incomplete story.
Now that I found stability, things started to become clearer. And with that clear thinking, my purpose became clearer.
I reconnected with my family. I found passion in my work again. I’m no longer living just to survive, but living for my values.
Today, I am a licensed nurse practitioner, therapist, and emotional intelligence coach. I am the founder of Empower Mental Health — a place where I provide the holistic care I once needed: therapy, medication management, and emotional coaching.
I believe — true healing happens when you connect honestly with yourself.
I teach my clients how to understand their diagnosis, learn to live with it rather than fight it.
If you’re wondering what’s “wrong” with you, it may be time to understand what your mind is telling you. Trust your body, listen to your inner voice.
And remember — asking for help is not weakness. It’s wisdom.
You’re not alone. And there’s no need to pretend anymore.