As a young child I always aimed to please, perform, make others happy and most likely put my own needs last. I was in ballet, tennis, drama and had so many extra curricular activities! Young me was full of confidence and energy. However as the years went by I started to feel burnt out, tired, like I wasn’t fitting in (especially when I got to high school).

I found an outlet through creativity and the arts which really f*cking helped (pardon my french). Going into my early 20s and studying at university I continued to be a high achiever whilst also pleasing others and ultimately putting my own needs last - deep down I knew this needed to change.

I was always viewed as the bubbly, happy girl but deeper down I knew there was a sadness lurking. Coming to terms with my sexuality and beginning to explore this at university massively helped, despite still struggling with internal homophobia (catholic upbringing things lol). In 2020 I went through a sexual assault and attempted rape which was probably the toughest thing I have had to go through - it took me 3 years to report it to the police and get the right support and help - therapy has helped managed feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helped me realise what happened to me does not define me as a person.

As a result of this and from my teens I also struggled with anxiety and depression, which made social situations and maintaining friendships challenging. Now at 26 I have learned so much more - I am in a job that I am happy in, I am out to most of my family and try and stick to a good routine. Spending time with people who feeling like having a warm cuppa (charging my human batteries) and enjoying my hobbies (writing, tennis and pottery classes) - so a message to anyone who is struggling with their mental health, ptsd after sexual assault and their sexuality - just know support is out there, the important people in your life won’t judge you and will support you no matter what. Try and not suppress yourself, do what makes you happy and remember there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, no rain no flowers etc (ya get me). Plus my pets have been my rock at times! Treat yourself as you would treat a friend and know what’s for you won’t go by you! Now at 26 I’m slowly starting to get better at saying “no” if I’m burnt out and “yes” when I truly want to (this is important).

I now have a loving girlfriend, supportive family and of course my precious cat Nigel! 🩷 Thanks for this book Jaspre and Britt, it’s really supported me through some tough times and reminded me I am not alone in this big world! Cause sometimes we can really feel isolated - but having connection is so important.