There are some stories that are hard to tell, even for someone like me who spends my days helping others find their voice. My experience with complex PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is one of those stories. Throughout this year, I kept it to myself, partly out of trying to figure this out myself, the fear and stigmas behind someone with mental health illnesses and partly out of not wanting to be defined by a diagnosis. But I reached a point where this was part of who I was and the honesty to accept it, made me realise that sharing my journey might help someone else feel less alone.
Finding The Courage To Speak
After being diagnosed with PTSD in February, I remember processing this for weeks, wondering whether I needed a label and how having a label will help me get the help I needed. How would I show up for the clients I have in my business? How do I tackle such a big issue?
Every doubt and insecurity surfaced. But the more I reflected, the more I realised that I needed time to be more open, honest and vulnerable. With time, I was able to connect the dots and see that my past traumas had created some present triggers which was why I got diagnosed with PTSD. Once I had processed the feeling into a thought, I was able to voice how everything linked together.
I had always documented my journey of how I got into being a voice coach, I’ve never shyed away from being open about my past. However, being at the stage where I am still recovering and having therapy for PTSD, when I’m not fully recovered and documenting the process is somewhat strange.
The Ripple Effect Of Honesty
After months of finding out more about PTSD, the effects it has on a person, both neurologically and also physcially and also journalling my research whilst sharing this with my friends, helped me understand the complexity of trauma and how deeply it can shape not only our emotions but also our bodies, behaviours, and relationships. The more I researched, the more knowledge I had and realised I wasn”t alone.
There were still things didn’t understand, why I was being triggered, why I was being so emotionally overwhelmed when I wasn’t feeling safe in my own home. And I knew without solving the problem of my past traumas, I couldn’t set up the business I wanted to. I was stopping myself from reaching my potential. So as I was trying to research ways of building up my business, that’s when I had the idea of reaching out to lots of different companies who had a blog page, one of them being PTSDUK.
I asked if I could write a blog for them and they said yes. I was not prepared for what happened next. Messages began to arrive, complete strangers thanking me for giving them hope. Others shared their own stories of trauma and healing, or told me that my words gave them the courage to reach out for support.
I have found comfort in writing this article from PTSD UK, which reassured me that healing and entrepreneurship can coexist. When it was published, I read over the article and it reminded me of how far I have come from diagnosis to recovery. It had been 10 months when I first got diagnosed in February to November when I am writing this blog.
A Year Of Ongoing Growth
Even though this past year felt like set back after set back without a single breakthrough in business or an achievement to indicate a clear triumph, my PTSD has allowed me to balance work by prioritsing my health. There have been months where I knew it wasn’t possible to take on new clients even though the money would have been nice. The new projects I wanted to start, haven’t been started due to my PTSD and although I’m a person who gets disappointed when I don’t tick off my to-do list, it’s given me a reset I need and to pause.
It has been a continuous process, it’s hard to see the year marked with progress when there has been so many setbacks, where there were endless days of survival and doubt. Running a business while navigating PTSD meant I had to learn to celebrate every win, no matter how small. Some weeks, progress looks like signing a new client or speaking at an event. Other weeks, it is as simple as making it through the day, keeping routines, or reaching out to a friend. I have learnt that both are valid.
What Vulnerability Has Taught Me
Letting people in and to choose to tell people about my PTSD has not always been easy. There are days when I still worry about being seen as “too much” or “not enough.” But I have learnt a few things along the way:
- There is strength in saying, “I am not okay,” and even more in asking for help.
- Healing is not a straight line. Some days are easy, others are tough, and that is normal.
- The right people will support you, not judge you, for your honesty.
Building A Supportive Community
One of the unexpected gifts of sharing my story has been the community that has formed around it. People I never expected to connect with other mental health conditions have reached out, offering encouragement, sharing resources, or simply saying, “Me too.” These connections have made me realise how many of us are carrying invisible burdens, and how much lighter they become when shared.
If you are not ready to share your story yet, that is okay. Write it down for yourself, practise saying it out loud in a safe space, or reach out to someone you trust. Every step counts, no matter how small. The act of putting feelings into words, even privately, can be a powerful step toward healing.
Moving Forward, Together
Looking back over this year, I am grateful I found the courage to share my story and to keep sharing, even when it feels raw. The community that gathered around me, clients, friends, and strangers reminded me that we are all more connected than we think. If you are living with PTSD, or supporting someone who is, please know that your experience is valid and you do not have to walk this path alone.
Healing is not a straight line. There will be setbacks and difficult days, but there will also be moments of hope, progress, and connection. By speaking out, we give ourselves and others permission to seek help, to rest, and to believe that things can get better.
A Personal Invitation
If you ever want to talk, if you want support in sharing your own story or finding your voice again, book a call with me. I am here to listen, without judgement, and to help you rediscover your strength one conversation at a time.