Today marks what would have been my husband’s 29th birthday.
Matt passed away almost a year ago (two weeks until his 1 year anniversary). He suffered deep depression, anxiety and work related stress. Not only did he suffer these crippling mental health conditions, he was born with Aspergers. This is a behavioural condition affecting one’s ability to relate to and understand others on an emotional level.
His mental health had been crippling him over the final year and a half of his life. The last 3 months is when I realised he wasn’t Matt anymore. I did what I could to support him and let him know if he needed me I was there. I would have done anything to help him.
Since Matt’s death, I have become so much more aware of the signs of depression. I have focussed on ensuring I take care of myself and my mental health. Over that last year I have started understanding how important I am to me. I don’t mean to sound selfish. Looking after yourself first is not selfish, it’s smart. Without your health you have nothing. If you don’t take care of yourself, you’re no good to anyone.
I’ve been slapped with a serious reality check. The strength I have now is empowering me to achieve the best I can and do the most with my life, for me firstly and for my late husband. I will not allow this ‘experience’ to cripple me.
Thanks for listening. xx
Kat’s Blog 