Exposure therapy. Real therapy.
But there are some days I still find myself scared to speak on certain topics.
About some of the things that mean the most to me. The things that have helped me the most in navigating trauma, heartbreak, and just life itself.
About how some days it’s extremely hard to be a mom. How raising the next generation is scary af.
About the diagnoses I received in my 30s. And while they do not define me— they have shed light on so many things.
I’d love to share more about the accomplishments I minimize…because I never want to be seen as bragging.
I’d love to share more about my coparenting relationship and how this journey encouraged me to come out.
Really just all things related to holistic health, functional medicine, public health — and the disconnects and disparities that lie within it all. Because none of it is perfect.
We live in a world that supports cancel culture if you make one mistake. So much so, that it leads many of us to think we must be perfect and polished every time we show up.
All while often times being fearful of what those around us might think.
Many people still don’t understand what I “do” for a living these days.
And that’s okay— just know I know what I came here to do 🤍 #healingjourney #socialmedia #healingthroughwords #showup90 #day34 @Justin Schuman | Yappers Unite
Opening up about deeply personal experiences like trauma and diagnosis is never easy, especially when the fear of judgment lingers heavily. Many who embark on healing journeys face this internal battle daily—balancing vulnerability with the instinct to protect themselves from misunderstanding or criticism. For new mothers, the intensity of raising the next generation can feel overwhelming. The societal expectations combined with personal challenges sometimes create a perfect storm of anxiety and self-doubt. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings honestly, as doing so breaks the silence around motherhood struggles and fosters supportive communities. Living with health diagnoses—especially those received later in life—often sheds light on past challenges and present needs. While these diagnoses don’t define who we are, they influence our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Sharing these stories can reduce stigma and inspire others to face their own health journeys with resilience. The digital age adds another layer, where social media can be both a source of healing and a minefield of scrutiny. The fear of being seen imperfect or making a mistake keeps many from being authentic online. However, when people choose to show up vulnerably and consistently, they create a ripple effect of acceptance and connection. Holistic and functional medicine offer perspectives on health that integrate mind, body, and community. Yet, disparities within public health systems remind us none of these approaches are flawless. Open conversations on these topics are vital to address systemic disconnects and advocate for better support. In a culture quick to cancel or criticize, embracing imperfection is radical. Being willing to share struggles, accomplishments—even those minimized out of fear of bragging—empowers others to do the same. Authenticity dismantles harmful expectations of perfection and invites collective healing. Ultimately, the journey through trauma, parenting, health, and self-expression is deeply personal but universally human. By sharing these experiences authentically, we build bridges of empathy and understanding that encourage others to show up fully, no matter the fear.
