Happiness is Not Automatic
"You know it's not the same as it was" -As It Was, Harry Styles
Real talk, the bottom picture was taken in late 2020 when I was about 15 pounds heavier. The top picture was taken yesterday. While, yes, I advocate for loving yourself at any weight. I do firmly believe that HEALTH is vital. And my health was declining in 2020. I had just been diagnosed with lupus and my meds were unstable for Bipolar. Since November of 2019, my health has been an uphill battle between my two illnesses.
In May of 2021, I fought the battle of my lifetime and lost the 15 pounds through stress (10/10 do not recommend). My meds were changed to stabilize my mental health. But my lifestyle changes kept the weight off. I walk more, drink more water, and I no longer gorge myself to the point that I want lay in bed in a food-coma, I go out and I do the things I enjoy- I take photos, I'm learning to drive a manual car, I spend time training my dog, Beyla.
I can honestly say that after a month long stint in the out-patient psychiatric hospital, a major career change in February 2022, and a lot of self-reflection, I am so much happier. Happiness is not automatic, it takes work and dedication to your recovery and health. And even then sometimes... "Shift" happens. #Lupus #Bipolar1Disorder #Bipolar1 #Bipolar #ChronicIllness #WeightLoss #weight #loveyourself