Hi, my name is Roziela.

I am diagnosed with major depressive disorder and anxiety. I've been struggling with it for almost a decade and ongoing.

‍At first, I was quite hesitant to join the programme. However, Wei Ching managed to gently persuade me into joining the programme.

Before the programme started, I was dealing with a lot of anxiety and stress which further exacerbated my condition.

My self-esteem was at an all-time low. 

Self care was non-existent.

My mood swings were all over the place.‍

When the programme started, I was still quite skeptical. It was difficult to be vulnerable and to trust the process or the people. Nevertheless, I gave it a chance since I chose the self-paced option.

During the programme, we learned how important self-care and self-love was. We were given prompts, videos and affirmations. We were taught how to set personal goals and to take tiny steps towards our goals.

To see the other participant's goals and challenges, gave me a glimmer of hope. 

I am not alone.

It reassured me that it is okay to struggle. It is normal to need help or ask for help.

From time to time, Wei Ching, will check in on us and help us if we are struggling.

‍

Side story..‍

I told her that I have to attend a sewing class in about 3 weeks.

‍Now, you would think that someone you barely knew was not going to remember that small detail right?

Wrong.

3 weeks went by and I had forgotten that I even told her about it. So I went to the sewing class. When it ended, I was sitting by myself under the void deck trying to compose myself, when suddenly I got a ping from my phone.

She remembered!

She checked in on me and asked, "How did the sewing class go?".

Small gesture but huge impact!

‍After the BetterSelf programme ended, here are a few things I've learnt.

• I am not alone.

• There are people out there who genuinely want to see me do well.

• It's okay to take things slowly.

• To be able to give myself the same amount of love and effort I freely gave to others.

• To not feel guilty when I have to set boundaries with others.

• Self-care is Self-love. Vice versa.

• There is no shame in putting myself first.

Thank you for taking the time to read my journey.

‍Your's truly,

Roziela.❤️🌈