My Abortion Led to Depression

I was only little when my parents got divorced and I started to develop Anxiety. As a teenager, I was in and out of relationships and moved house often. Searching for somewhere to call home. I was 20 when I fell pregnant and my partner told me to have an abortion. I was scared, confused and felt guilty. Desperate for support I searched for support groups but couldn't find any. Luckily I could rely on 1 friend who helped me through the abortion.

Afterwards, I became crippled with depression and found it very difficult to hear pregnancy news from friends and family. I eventually got involved in a mental health program, which helped me to get out of the house. I got involved in the art classes, running one and ended up getting a job at a local school. This was when life started to come together for me and I enrolled into art school.

Today I live a full life with a painting career and running my own business. I married a beautiful soul and I finally feel like I am home. I practice mindfulness to help with my anxiety and it assisted me in welcoming our son into the world. I still have times when I get anxious but I will reach out to people I trust.

#BeautifulMinds is a series of raw and honest stories from people sharing their lived experience with mental health in New Zealand. Published with permission. We hope these stories capture the diversity of how mental health affects different people and you can be inspired by their journey towards mental wellbeing. Clearhead’s mission is to destigmatise mental health through raising awareness and encouraging people to feel it is ok to seek help early by giving them the tools to do so. Sign up now to use the platform, it is free to do so!

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[Disclaimer: This is one person's personal story, and details their own experiences. This is not intended to be anti-abortion content, but is just a resource for people who may be dealing with similar feelings.]