My Mental Health Day 💚

Sometimes I Need to Put Myself First

If there is one thing I’ve learnt over the last few years, it’s that life doesn’t always go to plan.

Since leaving university, so much has changed. I’ve worked, travelled, made some amazing memories, laughed until my stomach hurt, met different people and experienced things that I’ll remember forever. But behind all the photos, holidays, nights out and happy memories, there have also been days when I haven’t felt like myself.

And I think it’s important to talk about those days too.

I’m someone who tries to keep going. I go to work, get things done, make plans and try to be there for the people around me. Sometimes I’ll tell everyone that I’m fine, put a smile on my face and carry on.

But sometimes I’m not fine.

Sometimes everything gets a little too much.

That’s when I know I need a mental health day.

For me, it’s not about staying in bed all day feeling sorry for myself. It’s about giving my mind a chance to catch up. It’s about switching off from work and everyday pressures and doing something for me.

Maybe I’ll go for a walk, take some photos, make something creative, look through memories from my travels, listen to music or simply sit with a cup of tea and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Creativity has always been a big part of my life. From studying promotional design and visual merchandising to making cards and taking photographs, having something creative to focus on has helped me through some difficult days.

Travelling has also become something I love. Getting away, seeing somewhere different and making memories with the people I love reminds me that there is a big world outside the stresses of everyday life.

But I’ve also realised that I don’t need to get on a plane or go somewhere amazing to look after myself.

Sometimes I just need a day.

I’ve been through times that have tested me. I’ve worked through difficult periods, dealt with changes in my life and had moments when I’ve questioned myself. But I’m still here, still learning and still trying.

I’m also incredibly thankful for my friends and family. The people who answer the phone, make me laugh, listen when I need to talk and sometimes know that something isn’t right before I’ve even said anything.

Those people probably don’t realise just how much the little things mean.

I’m learning that I don’t always have to be the strong one.

I don’t have to say yes to everything.

I don’t have to explain myself for needing some space.

And I definitely don’t need to feel guilty for looking after my own mental health.

So today I’m having a mental health day.

No pressure to have everything sorted out. No pretending. No worrying about what everyone else thinks.

Just some time to breathe, reset and remember who I am.

I’ve come a long way since the girl who finished university and wondered what life was going to look like next. Life hasn’t been perfect, and neither have I, but there have been some pretty amazing chapters along the way.

And there are plenty more still to come.

Today I’m choosing myself.

Because I’ve finally realised that looking after everyone else is important — but looking after me matters too. 💚

One day at a time. One memory at a time. And always remember: it’s okay to have a day just for you.