Welcome to the first installment of my blog, where I delve into the intriguing and multifaceted world of bumblebees, labels, and mental health. You may wonder why I have a particular fascination with bees. It's not just their hardworking spirit and their role in nature that captivate me; it's also because they resonate deeply with my personal journey and endeavours. In fact, I've channeled this passion into a new project: a podcast titled ‘Bumblebees and Cups of Tea’.
In this blog, I want to explore the concept of labels and how they have shaped my life and identity. Labels can define us, create perceptions, influence expectations, and contribute to stereotypes. I've been given many labels over the years by doctors, professionals, colleagues, and family members. Some of these include: mother, stubborn, clumsy, sad, anxious, survivor, manic, single mother, crazy eyes, lost, psycho, and funny. While some labels are harmless, others have significantly impacted my life.
They make me question: What do these labels say about me? Do they define my entire identity?
As I reflect now, I realise that everyone is complex and unique. However, try telling that to my younger self.
Let me take you through my mental health journey. I had my first panic attack at eight, a terrifying experience for a child who didn't understand anxiety. By eleven, my anxiety was severe, leading me to become a school refuser. My secondary school years were marked by poor attendance, hiding from lessons, and skipping school. At fourteen, I developed an eating disorder, and by fifteen, I was in and out of treatments and counselling, focusing only on the anorexia and not the underlying issues.
At nineteen, I was diagnosed with depression and spent six years on various antidepressants without a mental health assessment. During my first pregnancy at twenty-six, I experienced post-natal depression, leading to my first mental health assessment and a diagnosis of 'classic depression.' My second pregnancy at thirty brought a pregnancy-related complex mental health disorder, later simplified to depression and anxiety.
It wasn't until I was thirty-four that I received a diagnosis of Bipolar Type 2. After years of hospitals, clinics, counselling and treatments I found the right psychiatrist, Tim, who, along with a local equine therapy centre, significantly helped me navigate my mental health journey.
Explaining mental health to others can be challenging. Imagine trying to describe the best slice of toast you've ever had to someone who hasn't experienced it. It's similar to explaining mental health struggles to someone who hasn't lived them. Some days, I wake up with a clear mind; other days, I struggle with brain fog and overwhelming thoughts. The battle of the mind is relentless, with highs and lows that can be hard to navigate.
I liken my mind to a hive full of bees. Some bees are positive, some negative, and others just getting by. Sometimes they work in harmony; other times, they compete. My mind is always busy, rarely quiet. Can you tell what labels I bear just by looking at me? For those who don't know me, would you only see my labels because I told you?
I've spent years fearing labels and judgments, worrying about how employers and others would perceive me. But the positives always outweigh the negatives. Knowing when to seek help and having someone truly listen is crucial. My journey was long, but finding the right support made all the difference.
The purpose of a hive is to achieve harmony and unity under one leader—you. We are all the leaders of our own journey. Despite the hurdles, I remain strong. I have an amazing support system, and I understand who I am and who I strive to be. I have two incredible daughters, and I have just completed my MBA with a Distinction! You can achieve anything with determination and the right mindset.
I leave you with a quote by American poet Suzy Kassem, "To be successful, one has to be one of three bees, the queen bee, the hardest working bee, or the bee that does not fit in." Why can't I be all of these bees?
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned for more insights and stories from my hive.
1. What inspired you to start the "Bumblebees and Cups of Tea" podcast?
My personal journey with mental health and my fascination with the symbolism of bumblebees inspired the creation of my podcast. Through storytelling and meaningful conversations, I aim to shed light on the complexities of mental health, challenging the labels society places on us.
2. How do you approach the topic of mental health in your blog and podcast?
I share my personal experiences with mental health, focusing on the importance of understanding and moving beyond labels. My goal is to create a safe space for discussing mental health openly and honestly, helping others feel less alone in their struggles.
3. Can I connect with you for personalized support or to discuss my own mental health journey?
Absolutely! I'm here to listen and offer guidance based on my experiences. Feel free to reach out if you need support, advice, or simply someone to talk to. I'm passionate about helping others navigate their mental health journeys.
4. How can your blog and podcast help someone struggling with mental health issues?
My blog and podcast aim to provide comfort, understanding, and practical insights into managing mental health. By sharing my story and the stories of others, I hope to empower listeners and readers to embrace their journey and seek the support they need.
5. What services or resources do you offer beyond your blog and podcast?
In addition to my blog and podcast, I offer speaking engagements, one-on-one consultations, and workshops focused on personal branding and mental health. Whether you're looking to understand your mental health better or want to build a stronger personal brand, I'm here to help.
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