I Just Found Out I’m Living With a Mental Illness. Now What?

Learning that what you’ve been experiencing is a mental illness can stir up a wide range of emotions—confusion, sadness, relief, even fear. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s okay. Your feelings are valid, and you are not alone in this.

Putting a name to something you've quietly endured can feel overwhelming, but it can also be a step toward understanding and healing.

Remember: mental illness is something you experience, not who you are. It doesn’t define you. You are still capable of living a life filled with meaning, joy, and connection.

If you’re unsure of what to do next, we're here to support you. Here are a few steps you might consider:

Next steps:

  1. Take some time alone to reflect & process. 

Being alone in your thoughts or spending time journaling your emotions in silence can be extremely healing. Let yourself feel. You might learn something we wouldn’t have otherwise, or find a silver lining of good amidst the struggle. Although it’s good to process with others, time spent processing alone is just as important. 

2. share with someone you trust.

Find someone you trust and whom you feel safe being vulnerable. Share your story with this person and be honest about the mental illness you are learning to live with. You weren’t meant to carry your burdens alone, so allowing at least one other person to support you during this time is crucial! Sometimes just being heard can make such a difference. 

3. Stay curious — learn what you can about what you’re experiencing.

You don’t have to know everything right away, but learning more can help you feel more empowered! Read books, listen to podcasts, or find blog posts about your mental illness and learn its recommended treatments. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in conversations with your doctor, therapist, or support team. 

4. Consider working with a therapist who can support you on this journey.

This is exactly what therapists are here for–to partner with you on your journey towards healing and living a balanced, abundant life. In addition to family and friends, there are professionals who desire to support you, listen to you, and advocate for you. Therapy isn’t about being “broken,” but about being brave enough to reach out for healing. 

5. Find a healthy outlet you love — and stick with it.

What are some simple things you love to do that bring you life? Whether this is going on a run, creating art, playing music, photography, or cooking delicious meals, do more of it in your life! You do not have to feel guilty about prioritizing yourself and making time for intentional rest. We were not made to pour ourselves out constantly, but to be filled up as well! 

Living with a mental illness doesn’t make you any less whole. Recognizing your struggle is a beautiful step towards healing and wholeness. Wherever you’re at right now, you can always start making steps towards the life you desire to live. Whether you go through these suggestions in order, or jump around a bit, commit to doing all 5 of them and see the change it makes in your life! You are not alone–and your next step doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be yours. 

Resources for your next steps: 🤍

  • Schedule a session with one of our amazing therapists to support you as you navigate this new season 

  • Check out this book list (below) to help you find what books might be helpful to read 

  • Navigate Mental Health America’s “Learn” page to find resources and tools to help you understand different mental health conditions 

  • Read blog posts on the National Alliance on Mental Illness 

Book List:

Mental Health, Healthy LivingNovo LifeNovo Life CounselingComment