March Mental Health Spotlight:
Featuring: Netert Aset
March marks the launch of our Mental Health Spotlight, a special series highlighting unique voices, experiences, and insights in the mental health space. To kick things off, I’m thrilled to introduce our very first guest blogger, Netert Aset! Through her powerful perspective, Netert sheds light on important mental health topics that inspire reflection, healing, and growth. Stay tuned for an impactful read that continues our mission of turning Darkness to Dialogue: Living Well with Mental Illness.
One thing about living with chronic illness is that mental health plays a big role in healing and
overall wellness. Many doctors may not have the training to address patients' mental concerns.
Additionally, family and friends may be unable to fully relate to and understand the changes their
loved one is going through. Most importantly, the person going through chronic illness may not
know where to begin on this journey of balancing physical health with mental well-being. My
hope is to help give perspective from one who has been diagnosed with chronic illnesses and
has overcome their challenges through therapy.
When I was first diagnosed with Lupus (SLE), an autoimmune condition in which the immune
system can attack any part of the body. I was in a state of disbelief and began running through
thoughts and ideas of anything I knew concerning health to make sense of what
seemingly didn’t. I felt:
● Confused as to how it could happen, as I was healthy growing up.
● Upset at the realization of needing to take medications for life for pain and inflammation
management.
I decided that if I gave it very little attention besides taking the medicine and going to regular appointments, it would prevent me from feeling sad and hopeless at the prospect of living like this for the rest of my life.
Things took an intense turn when I was diagnosed with kidney failure due to lupus. I was
scared and worried that my life was going to be cut short, that I would not be able to achieve my dreams and life milestones. I knew I had to make changes to my life, such as going to hours-long treatments a few times a week, increasing medicine, and adopting a restrictive diet, including reduced fluid intake.
After days and nights of repeatedly pouring my heart out about my frustrations, feelings of
Sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness, I was encouraged by a friend to find a therapist. Some
Studies actually support those who suffer from chronic conditions to seek out professional help
mental health therapy, and even encourage the expansion of mental health resources for people
like us [1].
Considering I had seen a therapist years before, I had no problem consulting my
insurance to make that appointment. I found a therapist who was encouraging and
understanding, as she had experience with patients in my situation.
I found that going to therapy helped me to get all of these negative feelings off my chest. It
also helped me:
● Reduce my negative focus on body image due to surgeries and feeling unhealthy.
● Improve feelings about my situation and ways to look at the brighter side.
● Begin doing the things I love, such as dancing and singing.
● Reduce anxiety and self-doubt.
● Redirect negative thoughts into positive ones.
● Introduce coping mechanisms such as breathwork, yoga [2], and journaling for thought
pattern recognition.
Overall, having the right therapist helped me to improve my daily thought patterns that were
holding me back from my healing potential.
As confidence in my ability to live a more fulfilling life began to improve, I felt ready to come out of my shell and connect with new people through:
● Attended health events that focused on the wellness of the whole individual.
● Connect with others who have gone through similar physical health challenges.
● Cleaned up my social media [3] to follow uplifting and inspirational creators.
Connecting with like-minded individuals who reflected my health goals enhanced my mental
well-being.
Disclaimer for Monthly Mental Health Spotlight:
The guests featured in the Monthly Mental Health Spotlight on Darkness to Dialogue: Living Well with Mental Illness share their personal experiences and insights about mental health. Their stories are meant to inspire, raise awareness, and foster dialogue.
Please note that the views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or recommendations of Darkness to Dialogue. We encourage readers to seek professional guidance if they are struggling with mental health concerns. This platform is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical advice.
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