This is the face of someone with mental health issues.

This is the face of someone with mental health issues.

This is me in my early 20’s. After many, many months of specialists, tests, and medications, I was diagnosed with CFS. I ended up getting in touch with my local gym, to find a trainer as the illness and resulting reclusivity resulted in me gaining 20 kilos, suffering depression, anxiety, vertigo, fever, excema, panic attacks and my self esteem was in the toilet. I knew the only way I would get moving was with their support of an exercise professional, I could not do it on my own. I started on my health journey at the gym, and it’s never stopped, except now I can’t go to the gym.

I hate to think what would’ve happened if there were no gyms then. With none of the amazing trainers and supportive members who encouraged and empowered me I may not be the person I am today. I may still be riddled with anxiety, self loathing, still struggling to order myself a coffee or have my photo taken, instead of the confident woman I am today happily uploading mental health focused videos.

This is why I do what I do. Knowing how many people in the greater community are struggling with their health is why @the.mind.spot and I create those videos. Mental Health is Physical health!

The fact that the very discussion about gyms opening up in Victoria seems to be off the table is a travesty. As @tonydohertyoz touched on in his videos, mental health is a huge driver for people to join a gym. People whose pain is so great that that they need to make change. Unfortunately now, they can’t. Or can they?If you’re struggling mentally or physically, the longer you leave it, the more of an uphill slog you’re going to have. So I implore you, don’t wait around for the gyms to open because unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like it’s going to happen very soon. As much as it kills me to say that. The government isn’t going to save you. The only person who can take that first step is you.

Reach out, to friends, family, trainers/coaches, doctors, mental health pros, allied health pros, naturopaths, nutritionists, dieticians. Take those steps, get the help you need. Don’t wait around idly.You have the power within you to change things.