Mental health doesn't define who we are as individuals, our behaviour, actions and choices are what define us. Having a mental health condition does not make someone less of a person or determine their worth.

It is simply a part of who they are, similar to any physical ailment or condition. How they behave and interact with others, how they handle challenges and obstacles, and how they treat themselves and those around them can define their character.

'Mental Health and Mental Health Conditions'

But when it comes to mental health, mental health conditions are common and can affect anyone at any time. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It is how we choose to address and manage mental health that truly reflects who we are.

Mental health impacts behaviour

While mental health impacts our behaviour, it is only one aspect of our identity. We are multifaceted beings, capable of empathy, tolerance, acceptance, growth and change. Our actions and behaviour shape our relationships with others and make up our identity on how others will see us.

Ilana Estelle is a mental health and wellbeing advocate who combines educational insight with her personal experience of living with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. She holds diplomas in Counselling, Diet and Nutrition, Nutritional Therapy, Psychotherapy and Counselling, and Stress Management. Through her writing, Ilana supports others in navigating their emotional, mental, and physical health challenges. In addition to writing for The CP Diary, her work has appeared in healthy lifestyle magazines. Ilana is also the author of three books: Cerebral Palsy: A Story – Finding the Calm After the Storm, Spirituality, Healing and Me, and Survival: The Covid Years – Time for Change.

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