Name: Alex Newton
Mental Health Struggles: Bi-polar Disorder and anxiety
My Average Day: I typically wake up around 8:30 am and make myself a cup of coffee – this is a crucial part of my morning. No coffee = no workee. I relax for a bit, check my e-mails, and get some writing done. On the days that I don’t write, I’m either working or reading a book. On my days off, I like to relax, listen to my record player, and enjoy a cup of tea.
On the days when I struggle with my illness, I have to push myself to get these things done. It’s a lot harder than you’d imagine. But it makes you stronger – plus you learn what helps when the same thing happens again.
What helps during your mental health struggles: Exercising is probably the most helpful tool that I’ve used – and that’s helped the most – when going through my mental health struggles. Writing also helps, it’s something that has always been therapeutic for me.
How do your struggles affect those around you: Before I had been formally diagnosed, I had essentially sabotaged all of my relationships. I eventually fixed them all, but it was something that took some time and a lot of work to do. Nowadays, when I’m going through some struggles, I’m vocal about it with those that I care about. I find that this way they’re aware of it, and they can help me through it.
One thing I love about myself: Physically speaking, I love my curves. Which, honestly, I never thought I’d do. I had such an awful view of my body image and hated every inch of it. Now, speaking from a non-physical standpoint, I definitely love how intelligent I am. I don’t mean that in an arrogant way either. I never really appreciated my intelligence. I mean, there were times when i thought that I was cooler because I didn’t care about school and my grades – which I obvs wasn’t – BUT LOOK AT ME NOW.
Five things I’m thankful for: Music, tea, science, Murder, She Wrote, and books.
How has your life changed for the better: I would definitely say that a year ago, I hadn’t taken any risks or pursued my interests – specially writing. Now, I’m writing freelance for this blog and a web-site. I’m a lot more courageous now, and I most certainly am not afraid to pursue my dream – which is to eventually become a doctor (which I’ve wanted to do for seven years now). I’m definitely not the same person I was back before I had gone through recovery.
Personal Motto: “Today’s a great day. I can and I will.”
Most played song: Victorious – Panic! At The Disco
A character I relate to: I feel like I’m a mix between Cristina Yang, Meredith Grey & Lexie Grey (all from Grey’s Anatomy, of course)
Motivation: My motivation stems from me always wanting to learn new things and be better. And it also stems from wanting to share my thoughts and opinions and knowledge with others.
Alex Newton is a nursing student and mental health advocate. She grew up in a small town and plans on moving to London, England one day and open up her own health practice. She has a cat named Maya who she adopted whilst going through some difficulties. She’s a daughter, sister, and warrior who enjoys a nice cuppa tea.
You can follow Alex on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr.
Defying Shadows 