ABOUT ME

My name is Riley aka Ri and this is my blog!

 

Well... no, not really a blog per-say more like a gateway to deep feelings, emotions and unsaid thoughts. I’ve never been the best (or even adequate) at expressing how I feel. I’m the type of person that lets stress and anxiety build up until one day I explode, and trust me, I’ve had a lot of explosions.

 

One thing I am good at, however, is writing. Getting my thoughts down on paper, physically seeing the words, and having raw proof of my feelings is something that has helped me make sense out of life. That’s precisely what this blog is. It’s for me and it’s for anyone else who feels even a little bit like how I do. 

 

A little background on me: I have been dealing with anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember. From panic attacks in high school, to crippling sadness, mental health struggles took over my life. Then in the summer of 2015 I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE). Lupus is an auto immune disease meaning my immune system attacks healthy body tissue causing problems with my skin, joints and extreme fatigue. With a new diagnosis, on top of my deteriorating mental health, I was a mess to say the least.

 

After months of therapy, guidance and the right treatments; I slowly but surly started to find myself. Overcoming that hardship is something I’m proud of but it’s not over, it’s an everyday battle and something I’m improving on constantly. Making my happiness, health and confidence a priority has been something that has not only changed my life but my relationships as well. That’s where my passion for mental health and self-care blossomed.

 

I’m SO excited to be able to start this new journey of blogging in a real and open way. My hopes are to be a relatable resource for others who struggle (because we all do) and develop meaningful connections. Thanks for tagging along with me!!! xoxo 

 

All the love,

Ri

 

“When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own our stories, we get to write a brave new ending.”

-Brene Brown