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. Conquering Chronic Illness Through Mental Health Written By:  Netert Aset 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 important...

Mental healing is a deeply personal journey, one that feels both overwhelming and empowering at the same time. For years, I felt lost, as if recovery from the trauma I had experienced was something far beyond my reach. It all started when I found myself in 2 abusive relationships, a toxic cycle of domestic violence that left me broken in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It wasn’t just the physical pain; it was the emotional and psychological toll that wore me down, making me question my worth and my ability to ever be truly happy again. Before the abusive relationship was the sexual assault. I didn’t know how to cope with the swirling chaos of pain, fear, and anger. Every day felt like an uphill battle. The weight of those experiences lingered, coloring my perspective on life and how I saw myself. Healing, I thought, was a distant dream. My mind and heart were shattered, and the idea of putting the pieces back together seemed impossible. The road to recovery seemed so long, so difficult. For...

  When I first started struggling with anxiety and depression, I felt like I was stuck in a never-ending cycle. My mind felt heavy, constantly consumed by worry, and my body just seemed to follow suit. I was exhausted, tense, and sluggish. It wasn’t until I began paying attention to my physical health that I realized how much it impacted my mental health. I started small. I began focusing on sleep, no more late nights scrolling through my phone. I established a bedtime routine that helped me unwind, and I made sure to get a full night of rest. Almost immediately, I noticed a difference in how I felt the next day. I also began drinking more water and eating nutrient-rich foods, fueling my body with what it truly needed. One of the biggest changes came when I incorporated regular exercise into my routine. I kept it simple by just walking every day. The result? I felt lighter, both physically and mentally. Slowly, I began breaking the cycle, discovering that taking care of my body was...