Finding Light in the Dark: Lessons from Rebuilding My Life to Kickstart Your New Year

A few years ago, I hit what felt like a dead end. Life had become a monotonous cycle of just getting through the day. My best days seemed behind me when I was younger, more popular (or so I thought) and prettier, and I felt completely alone — trapped in a mindset where nothing I did mattered. I wasn’t suicidal, but the hopelessness was suffocating.

I had lost so many people — some to illness, others to suicide — and it reinforced this belief that life could end in an instant, whether I put in the work. So why bother? I numbed my pain, went through the motions, and lived in self-pity, stuck on repeat.

Then, after losing yet another friend, something inside me shifted. I realised that I did care — so deeply, in fact — that I couldn’t keep living this way. I wanted to stop pretending everything was fine. I needed a change, so I admitted myself to St. Helen’s Hospital for a month of therapy.

It was the best decision I’ve ever made.

The Healing Process

At St. Helen’s, I hit pause on life. I reflected deeply, cried a lot, and finally let go of things I couldn’t change. For the first time in years, I forgave myself for mistakes that had haunted me, realising they weren’t as monumental as I’d believed.

I reconnected with parts of myself I thought were lost — like my love for music and art — and found new ways to process grief, pain, and even joy. I made friends, shared my story, and discovered that even in a challenging place like a hospital, I could still inspire others and build community.

Lessons I Learned

This journey taught me some invaluable lessons about life, mental health, and the importance of connection. As we step into 2025, I want to share these insights with you, in hopes they might help you make the changes you’re seeking — without needing a hospital admission to get there.

1. Vulnerability is Strength

For a long time, I saw caring deeply and showing vulnerability as weaknesses. I thought I needed to be tough, carefree, and driven, like those around me. But trying to fit into someone else’s mould only made me miserable.

Despite the growing conversation around mental health, stigma and shame still linger when it comes to seeking support or facing a diagnosis. Yet, caring for others, allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, nurturing your passions, and prioritising your mental health aren’t signs of weakness — they’re the very essence of strength, and what makes life meaningful. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.

2. Schedule Downtime

I was notorious for burning the candle at both ends juggling work, social/parties, fitness, and family without leaving space for myself. Now, I make sure to block out time in my calendar for activities that nourish my soul. Your calendar doesn’t lie — it tells the story of your true priorities. Does it reflect a balance between work, family, fitness, and personal downtime? If not, 2025 is the perfect time for a reset to align your schedule with what truly matters.

3. Managing Mental Health Takes Work

Even two years on, my mental health has never been better, but nurturing it remains a priority. No one else can do it for you. Medications and therapy are vital tools, but what truly transformed my life was staying connected to the community, maintaining consistent routines, and prioritising physical activity. Returning to the office and spending less time working from home has also helped me rediscover a sense of purpose. I’m committed to keeping these good habits going because I’ve seen how much better life can be — and I don’t want to go backwards. If you need help or support, there’s absolutely no shame in reaching out to your GP and taking that first step toward improving your mental health. Once you take that leap, you’ll wonder why you waited so long — it’s a decision that can truly change your life.

4. Sobriety Changed Everything

While sobriety isn’t for everyone, it’s been life-changing for me. I’ve lost over 15kg, sleep better, and feel more productive. My mental health has improved tenfold. Socialising looks different now, but I’ve poured that energy into community building and personal growth — things I’m incredibly proud of. If you’re sober-curious, I’m happy to share my experience.

A Brighter Future

Despite all the pain, setbacks, and struggles, I’ve rebuilt my life. My career, relationships, and opportunities have flourished because I’ve put in the work. I haven’t navigated life perfectly, but I’ve learned that imperfection makes us human — and that’s a powerful thing.

At Get Out, we’re building a community of people who understand these challenges and want to grow together. If you’re ready to make changes in 2025, you don’t have to do it alone.

You’ve got this — and we’ve got you.