By Leila-El Behairy, Events and Partnerships director
Typically, when someone asks you, "who do you look up to?", your mind automatically thinks of someone older than you or in a position of authority. When I think about my answer to this question, my mind wanders to my younger sister, Hannah. Hannah is my younger sister, but also my best friend and one of the most resilient, brave, and strong people I know, who is always there for me and our family.
But it hasn’t always been sunshine and rainbows for Hannah and our family. She has been in therapy for 7 years now, and at the age of 12, battled obsessive-compulsive disorder and anorexia. Seeing someone you love experience that kind of pain and mental struggle is one of the hardest things you can witness someone go through. But even more inspiring, is seeing them fight with everything they have, working towards recovery. Hannah has faced her battles head-on, and is now thriving at her university, in several clubs, and meeting so many new people. I am so proud of her resilience, mental fortitude, and how far she has made it in her recovery journey. She’s taught me that strength is not about pretending everything is fine; it’s about facing your struggles, admitting when you’re not okay, and still finding the will to keep going.
The unwavering support of our loving parents and family played a crucial role in Hannah’s journey to recovery. It wasn't just about being there when things were at their worst; it was about being a constant source of love, encouragement, and understanding. We learned that checking in on your loved ones, really listening to them, and showing up when they need you can make a world of difference in their mental health journey. Our support helped her find her way back to herself, but it also taught us the importance of asking for help when you need it.
Nobody should ever feel like they have to face their struggles alone. Whether it’s a mental or physical struggle, or any other challenge, support can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your family, friends, or professionals. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of courage. It’s acknowledging that we all need each other’s support, and sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is ask.
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