It’s one thing to say, “Take care of your mental health.”
It’s another thing entirely when therapy sessions cost the same as your monthly food budget.
In this economy, self-care is starting to look a lot like survival. For many women, it’s not about choosing between a manicure and meditation; it’s about choosing between rent or therapy. And while mental health awareness is trending, access and affordability? Not so much.
The truth is, prioritising mental health doesn’t always come in the form of a licensed therapist and a plush grey couch; sometimes, it’s finally unsubscribing from that anxiety-inducing group chat, choosing rest over productivity guilt, or saying no to people who make you feel small.
For those who can afford therapy, beautiful, do it. Talk to someone. There’s no medal for doing it all alone.
But for those who can’t (or can’t just yet), it doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your mental health. It just means you’re getting creative about protecting your peace. Maybe that looks like journaling. Maybe it’s long walks and longer voice notes to a friend who gets it. Maybe it’s boundaries or creating a morning routine that grounds you.
We romanticise “prioritising mental health,” but sometimes it just looks like survival in peace.
Keeping the lights on and your mind steady is an act of strength.
Choosing small, sustainable ways to show up for yourself — that’s powerful too.
Mental health doesn’t have one look.
It doesn’t always come with a diagnosis or a dramatic moment of clarity.
Sometimes, it’s just the quiet choice to keep choosing yourself.
And right now? That’s more than enough.
