Soft Moments, Strong Heart: My Mental Health Story

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to share something personal I’ve been learning to navigate—social anxiety.

You might be surprised to hear that from me. I show up, I work hard, I’m driven, I create, I share—and I’m often seen as an extrovert. But behind the highlight reels and daily hustle, there are moments when anxiety creeps in—quietly and powerfully.

❗My anxiety has kept me from joining group runs I genuinely wanted to attend.
❗It’s made me cancel meetings I’d already prepped for.
❗It’s convinced me to skip the gym on days I knew I needed movement.
❗It’s even stopped me from nourishing and hydrating my body when I needed it most.

Social anxiety doesn’t always look like panic—it can look like silence, avoidance, or simply staying small. And if you’ve ever felt that tug-of-war between wanting to show up and feeling frozen by anxiety, you are so not alone.


The Myth of “All or Nothing”

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is this: life doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
♥️ We can go hard and be soft.
♥️ We can chase goals and take breaks.
♥️ We can lead boldly and still need support.

I haven’t perfected the balance (who has?), but I’m committed to striving for it daily.


What’s Helped Me: From “Just Deal With It” to Calm

For years, I just “dealt with it.” I tried gummies, mild meds, and self-talk that didn’t quite stick. Some days were okay. Some were really hard.

Then I found Calm—a simple, all-natural powder that dissolves on your tongue and gently takes the edge off, without making me feel foggy or tired. It works with your body, not against it.

It’s like a warm hug in the middle of chaos. I take it before meetings, workouts, or whenever I need a reset—but my favorite time is in the evening. It’s been a game-changer.

If you’re navigating stress or social anxiety, I encourage you to explore what works for you. And if you’re curious about Calm—or just want to chat about the real, unfiltered stuff—I’m here.


Mamas, I See You

My kids are grown now, but I still remember the pressure that came with summer break—keeping everyone busy, managing the chaos, and trying to hold it all together.

If the thought of it already has you feeling stretched thin, you’re not alone.

And if you’re looking for a natural way to stay grounded and ease into the whirlwind of summer, Calm might be exactly what you need.

A study released this month by Columbia University found that 75% of mothers in the U.S. experience some form of mental or physical health challenge. That stat? It’s real—and it’s a reminder that we need tools and support, not just grit.


A Few Resources for Social Anxiety

Because I believe in offering support beyond the scroll, here are a few resources I trust:

  • Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA): adaa.org – Tools, support groups, and therapist directories.
  • Mindfulness Apps: Insight Timer, Headspace, and Calm (the app, not the supplement!) all offer free meditations for anxiety.
  • Books:
    • The Anxiety Toolkit by Dr. Alice Boyes
    • How to Be Yourself by Ellen Hendriksen

You Are Not Alone

Mental health isn’t a moment—it’s a movement. Whether you’re feeling on top of the world or struggling to leave the house, your experience is valid.

Give yourself grace. Ask for help. Explore what balance looks like for you.


🎁 A Special Gift for My Blog Readers 🎁

If Calm sounds like the kind of support you’ve been looking for, I’ve got something just for you.

As a thank-you for being part of this community, when you order Calm through me, I’ll gift you 7 days of Focused—absolutely FREE.

Why? Because I believe in balance. When we feel calm and clear, we can show up as our best selves—in life, work, and everything in between.

👉 Click here to place your order. Once it comes through, I’ll personally send Focused your way—no strings, just support, and I’ll cover postage!

And don’t forget to visit my Wellness page to learn more about the power of bioactive precision peptides and why everyone’s buzzing about them.


Let’s keep this conversation going—even after May. Because our mental health matters every month. 💚

Make Moves, Live Boldly!

Denise xo

psst…want a great summer recipe? drop the comment “summer salad” and I’ll send it your way!

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