Leila
52 years, Female | Toronto
“The social worker identified my ongoing anxiety and emotional challenges and introduced me to a group therapy program. Weekly sessions over Zoom covered topics such as anxiety management, time management, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). While initially uncertain about the program, I found it transformative. It provided me with tools to navigate my emotions and regain control over my life.”
My path toward mental well-being began following my diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Adjusting to the changes in my body triggered emotional struggles, but I believed I could manage them independently. However, during a conversation with my specialist, I experienced a breakdown. Upon referral to a psychiatrist specializing in MS, I felt my concerns were overlooked. Despite being prescribed medication, I opted not to take it, hesitant to add to my existing medication regimen.
Navigating my emotions as best I could, my mental health deteriorated further when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Heightened anxiety and emerging fears, including agoraphobia, overwhelmed me. Despite feeling I had to handle it alone, one of my healthcare providers suggested a program to assist with my physical health needs.
This program included sessions with a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, and a social worker. Initially skeptical of the social worker's role, I attended the appointments as part of the program.
The social worker identified my ongoing anxiety and emotional challenges and introduced me to a group therapy program. Weekly sessions over Zoom covered topics such as anxiety management, time management, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). While initially uncertain about the program, I found it transformative. It provided me with tools to navigate my emotions and regain control over my life, including overcoming my fear of public transit.
My mental health has significantly improved since participating in the group therapy classes. I have completed the initial sessions and eagerly await future opportunities. I now recognize that I don't have to face my challenges alone and know when to seek help.
For me, the primary obstacle on my mental health journey was a lack of awareness. I acknowledge the abundance of support available for individuals in acute distress, but feel that those experiencing less severe struggles often go unnoticed. I emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health concerns before they escalate, underscoring the significance of chance conversations that provide much-needed support, even when unexpected.
Disclaimer: All names featured throughout this report have been changed to protect the identity of participants. These individuals were selected at random from a group of individuals that recently completed an online blind survey about mental health, and self-identified as having a mental health diagnosis. Participants were compensated financially for sharing their stories, with a commitment from MHRC to privacy and anonymity.
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