Hi, I’m Lauren Bell, the new social media assistant — and I’m no stranger to mental health struggles.
My journey began at a very young age. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) when I was just five years old, along with ADHD. For a long time, something still felt “off,” but it wasn’t until I turned 15 that I finally received a diagnosis for depression. That moment was a turning point for me — the beginning of understanding myself in a deeper way, and finally getting the support I needed.
Once I started getting help, everything began to shift. I learned the importance of self-care, explored different therapy options, and got involved in a mental health group at my high school. There, I received training in mental health first aid and suicide prevention, and I found a community of people who truly understood what I was going through.
Over time, I discovered that my mental health was most stable when I consistently practiced self-care. For me, that includes having a structured routine. I thrive when my day has a clear rhythm and schedule. Below are a few ways I practice self-care:
- Doing my skincare – It’s not just about appearance, but about taking a few moments for myself every day.
- Playing guitar and singing – Music helps me process my emotions and express myself.
- Spending time in nature – Even just 10 minutes outside each day makes a big difference.
- Vinyasa yoga – This has been a game-changer.
- Having A Grounding Kit- This has helped me in moments where I feel like my mental health is becoming unstable again.
- Having A Dog- Studies have proven that owning a pet positively impacts mental health.
- Spending Time With Those In My Support System- Having those who know about my mental health helps me feel balanced.
Yoga, especially, has introduced me to a whole new way of calming my mind and body. Through vinyasa, I learned how to slow down, focus on my breath, and move my body in a flowing, intentional way. It’s a practice that grounds me, helps me release tension, and brings clarity when my thoughts are racing.
This journey hasn’t always been easy, but every step has brought me closer to understanding what I need to feel balanced, whole, and healthy. If you’re struggling with your mental health, please know you’re not alone. There is help out there, and healing is possible. I am still in therapy, and yes, I take medications every day and sometimes as needed. Still, all of these things, along with different things I love to do and am learning how to do, are making a difference in bringing me one step farther in my journey every day.
I’m still learning, still growing, and still navigating it all — but I’m proud of how far I’ve come. And if sharing my story helps even one person feel seen or encouraged to get support, then it’s all worth it. An ending tip I can give everyone is to take care of yourself and your well-being, and spend time with those who are a part of your support network, as they are there to help you.