To all the women who are reading this, I feel you. I understand how it feels to suffer in silence and pretend that everything is okay. It is not easy. I used to be that type of woman. I tried to keep everything to myself, hoping that things would get better on their own. However, as time went by, I realized that this approach wasn’t working. I was just pushing myself deeper and deeper into a dark hole. That’s when I decided to change my life and start the healing process. It was not easy, but it was worth it. I hope that my story can inspire other women to do the same.

Growing up, I always felt like I didn’t fit in. I was the shy kid who always kept to herself. I had friends, but I never felt like I truly connected with anyone. This feeling stayed with me as I grew older. It was not until I got into a toxic relationship that things started to spiral out of control. I felt like I had lost my sense of self. I tried to keep up appearances, but I was dying on the inside. It wasn’t until my partner abused me that I decided that enough was enough. I left the relationship and went on a journey to rediscover who I was.

The healing process was not easy. I had to confront a lot of painful emotions that I had been suppressing for years from my childhood, alcoholic step dad, drug addicted parents, sexually abusive Uncle, foster care and sadly the list goes on. I had to make changes in my life to take care of myself. I started to prioritize self-care, whether it was taking a bubble bath or going for a walk in nature. I also focused on my art and creating a safe work environment.

One of the most important things that I did was to start loving myself. I had to learn how to be my own best friend. I read self-help books and listened to motivational speakers. I surrounded myself with positive people who uplifted me instead of bringing me down. I learned to let go of toxic relationships that no longer served me. I had to learn how to set boundaries, which was not easy but essential for my well-being.

Now, I am in a much better place. I still have bad days, but I have the tools to manage my emotions and take care of myself. I am proud of the woman that I have become. I am happy, healthy, and surrounded by love. I want to encourage other women who might be going through a similar experience to take that first step towards healing. It is possible to come out on the other side, and when you do, you will be stronger and more resilient than ever.

If you are a woman reading this, know that you are not alone. It is okay to ask for help. It is okay to be vulnerable. It is okay not to have everything figured out. Healing is a journey, and it takes time. Be patient with yourself. Love yourself. And most importantly, believe in yourself. You have the power to change your life, to overcome your struggles, and to come out on the other side better than ever. Remember, you are strong, you are beautiful, and you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to.