A couple of weeks ago I spoke on my instagram stories about medication in reference to mental health. I had lots of messages from those struggling with this so wanted to share a little more. I have been really open about my experience with medication, which I was given back in February 2020 for the first time ever due to what was dubbed as an out of the blue acute mental health illness (mania). At that time, going to hospital and taking loads of medication was the only option as my case was deemed as a medical emergency. Since I got out in March 2020, I’ve been dropping my medication slowly every few months to the point that 20 months later, I’m at the final stages of coming off. This has required a lot of patience, support and being open with my family and friends about how I’m feeling. The recovery has been slow and steady and whilst a big part of me was temped to sprint through it, I seem to be doing well seeing it as more of a marathon. With my speaking work, I meet many leaders in their fields who are very good at giving out advice and helping others, yet find it very hard to practise this themselves. It can feel impossible to get off that busy train, especially when you know you can make a real difference. I want to remind you that although you are a wonderful human being full of potential, you have limited resources. You must rest. You must prioritise yourself.
I had lots of messages with people struggling due to feeling numb being on these strong tablets. Yet lowering the dose can be so hard and come with challenges. I would love us to get to the point that we could talk about antidepressants or mood stabilisers/anti psychotic pills the same as we would needing to take a paracetamol. There is no shame in being on them, feeling a need to stay on them or wanting to try and come off them. This is a personal choice that you should be able to make with the support of a psychiatrist. If you are coming off these super strong pills you will of course need to go easy on yourself. My main withdrawal symptoms so far have been a bit of nausea and waves of anxiety. My recovery is going really well though and I wanted to share more on this weeks podcast, episode 140. I hope it offers hope, encourages more open conversations and feels a bit like a warm hug. Jump in at the link here or across your favourite podcast channel ❤️
I want to put it out there again that many of the most amazing, strong souls I know have struggled with their mental health. A health scare of the mind is often a sign of really caring and feeling deeply. Embrace all of who you are. Never ever be ashamed of the times the mind needs a good bit of tender loving care. You got this 🤍
Jojo Fraser is an award-winning author, podcaster and keynote speaker, dubbed as ‘the Queen of positivity and a kindness advocate. She is a Tedx speaker and a regular speaker on BBC Radio. Jojo is known for normalising discussions around our mental health, making it accessible and relatable to all. She has quickly grown a reputation for having a huge impact even on the most sceptical of people. She has a huge passion for helping people to get their mojo back. Jojo loves acting, singing, wild swimming and exploring with her family.
To book Jojo for a speaking event see more here.
Contact her at – mummyjojoblog@gmail.com or across social @jojofrasermojo
Follow Jojo’s popular podcast here, which is dubbed by her global listeners as ‘free therapy’.
