In our next spotlight, we chat to Danika Alice (@my_mh_journey) about the challenges she faces every day, and how she overcomes them on a daily basis in order to find self-love, and raise mental health awareness.
What is your mission statement?
To raise awareness on subjects that need to be spoken about. Mental illness awareness, chronic illness awareness, diet culture and much more. In raising awareness we start conversations and we learn from one another and we can hopefully work together in continuing to raise awareness. I just want people to realise how amazing they are no matter what.
What sorts of things motivate you personally and professionally?
I feel motivated by other people a lot of the time, having conversations with other people about matters that we are passionate about, it motivates me and reminds me why I do what I do!
What are the biggest challenges you face, and how have are you working to overcome them?
I live daily with mental illness and chronic illness, both are invisible so I’d say it’s quite a challenge to navigate life with invisible illnesses, and the stigma that comes with it also. But, I am in therapy and I have been for two years and I am working on learning how to cope with this and how to address these situations.
What are your goals for the future?
I think goals-wise, I just want to keep connecting with people, keep on taking up space and spreading awareness. I want other people to know they are not alone.
What advice would you give to others going through similar struggles?
This one’s difficult really, because it’s all well and good me sitting here telling people to go to the doctors and such but it’s not always that simple. Try and reach out if you can. Sometimes just talking to someone can really help. But, honesty I do believe that everyone should have access to the health care that they need, whether that be therapy or pain management.
What are your Top Five Tips for a good Self Love strategy?
Affirmations are so good, tell yourself every day you are amazing and you can keep holding on. Try putting yourself first, remember how important you are too. Spend some time with yourself, really get to know yourself, ask yourself why you don’t show yourself love, remind yourself that you deserve it. Rest when you need to and eat when you need to.
For more information visit @my_mh_journey
