I’ve been pretty open on (social media) over the past few years about aspects of my mental health journey, but to be honest, as someone who still holds many aspects of my personal life privacy pretty close to my chest, there are certain moments and experiences in my life that I haven’t felt brave enough to share.

That means when things get tough, I have a tendency to use the outgoing performance side of my personality to step it up a notch when I’m at work or out and about to give the impression I’m fine, that ultimately leads to feelings of overwhelm and burnout.

Then the introvert side of me takes hold when I’m alone, making it hard to connect with family and friends, when I really should be utilising them for support. I avoid social situations and struggle with phone calls, as I’m scared sometimes to face the harder truth of how I’m feeling. And something as simple as someone asking ‘how are you?’ Is enough to trigger the feels from being unlocked.

This cycle is exhausting, prevents me from healing, and gives the impression to those who don’t know me that I’m fine, and those that do know me, that I’m avoiding them, which can come off as rude.

Reflecting as I write this, I know I can do better being more open to those around me when things get tough, as it can lift a huge weight off me.

I’m not telling you this for sympathy, or using it as a cry for help, it’s moreso being a little bit more upfront of what you don’t always see about people’s behind the scenes, so you don’t feel alone if you’re struggling, and hopefully it’s a little nudge to encourage you to speak up, especially when you’re not doing ok.

(Heart On My Sleeve) is trying to encourage openness around not being ok, also providing people with the tools to take action so we can tackle the worldwide mental health epidemic. Which is why I’ve drawn this heart on my sleeve today.

If my story resonates with you, please lean into those around you, and be brave enough to say, “I’m not ok.”

It’s very ok not to be ok. You’ll be amazed at the power of talking, and wherethat journey could take you.