When I started this blog nearly 4 months ago I wanted to remain completely anonymous. If someone had told me back then that I would be posting photos of myself on here I would never have believed them. Back then, I was embarassed that I was struggling so much with mental illness.
One of the reasons I want to post these particular photos of me is to show that people with depression and anxiety don’t spend their days looking miserable. When I decided to tell family members in Australia that I have depression and anxiety, they were genuinely shocked. They said that they had no idea or didn’t suspect anything.
I am now able to talk more openly and honestly about how I am with the people in my life I trust. My view is that if being mentally ill makes others uncomfortable it is their issue not mine.
These are some photos of me during our time in Australia…
With the lifeguards at Surfer’s Paradise
With some police at Surfer’s Paradise
Chilling with Pilot, Emma’s Shar Pei
At Australia Zoo
In Sydney near the Harbour Bridge
Dave took these straight after my Meet the Dolphins experience
I couldn’t resist doing this when I came across it at Australia Zoo
Enjoying the sun by the Batmobile at Movieworld.
I still have days when I find it hard. When I would rather stay in bed all day or not bother seeing people. Little things can require a lot of energy. But I refuse to let anxiety and depression define me.
Lost to the Dark 
Lovely to see you looking so happy, Gemma! You’re right that there will be times when you won’t feel like that, but recognising that is one of the most important parts of getting over it. You’re doing great! xx
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Thanks Clive! Feel really strong at the moment. Hope you’re well x
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That dog is gorgeous! I’m going to be travelling next year, Australia part of that so these pictures are so exciting for me ha:) x
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Thank you. I think Walter is gorgeous too 😀 How long are you going travelling for next year? You’ll love Australia x
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We’re not really putting a time on it at the minute. We’re doing Thailand etc and then onto Australia where we might settle down for a bit and get jobs x
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Sounds fantastic x
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Love the pics with the life guards and police guys! Not suprised you wanted to show them 😉
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Haha yeah they were nice! x
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You look like you had a really great time (and that dog is adorable!) I hate that some people think that just because you have one good day, you can’t be suffering from a long term illness, but I think it was very brave of you to post these photos. I hope you are well 🙂
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Thank you. I did have a great time. I feel like I am in a good place right now. Hope you are well x
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Great job, you! Lots of hard work–and still to come, I know–but look at you, loving life!
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Thank you 🙂 x
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Thank-you for this particularly the bit about you thinking that our family wouldn’t believe you about the depression. I often feel like this and it’s what has really stopped me talking to people about it. I am glad you have found the strength to start talking about such a difficult topic x
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Thank you. It’s been a long process x
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It is a long long journey. Good luck and I look forward to reading about how much progress your making x
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Thank you x
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Fantastic photos I don’t think many people believe in my anxiety especially because I’m always smiling and making people laugh…its really awesome to relate to someone like yourself keep it up. (:
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Thank you. Going to Australia did wonders for my mental health x
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