I experienced many years of mental illness symptoms, in and out of episodes of depression and elation, which meant that I faced an uncertain future – one without stability and no guarantee of personal safety. However, resilience kicked in back in 2019, following a hospital admission which led to my diagnosis. I began medication trials and several rounds of therapy, whilst still episodic which delayed treatment at times, but I worked with professionals, communicating what I thought was best for me, taking the reins and helping the National Health Service tailor my care to stabilise my moods and get me to a place of safety mentally. Following Diagnosis I fell into a dark period of denial and guilt which led to substance misuse and maladaptive behaviour – ultimately affecting all my relationships with those close to me. I single handily changed my destiny in 2023 – I headed in to a period of sobriety, began exercising outdoors: hiking, walking and strolling by the sea. I have got most of my answers and made peace with a lot of the past during my recent compliance with therapy, medication and learning to say no to what did not enrich my life. I am immensely proud of my recent achievements in that I have relocated by the sea – my happy place! I am now back working with Children, supporting their health and well-being. I am unsure how future episodes will effect me, but stand on a much stronger platform, and I have the insight now to know that life is precious, it must be safeguarded and every minute we have on this earth is a blessing!