Owning and Honoring Your Story and Your Mental Health Journey with Sue Bowles

<p>For people grappling with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, there may be a belief that offering support to others who are facing similar struggles is not possible until they have completely overcome these issues themselves. </p><p>However, in this episode of From Survivor to Thriver, we had a conversation with Sue Bowles, who revealed why this perception is flawed. As a matter of fact, it only takes being one step ahead of someone to assist and encourage them in navigating their mental health journeys. </p><p>You don’t need to be fully cured to make a significant positive impact in someone else’s life. </p><p>Sue Bowles is a survivor turned thriver as an author, speaker, and Master Certified Life Coach. Having done the hard work of healing from a childhood rape, an eating disorder, other sexual assaults, and considering suicide, Sue now defines the effect the life-altering events have on her. </p><p>The events no longer define Sue; she defines them. “You only have to be a step ahead to help the person behind you” is the bedrock to the value Sue brings. She founded My Step Ahead and is the “Chief Instigator” behind the new Dare to Believe Movement, whose purpose is to nurture others to ‘dare to believe that you matter,’ knowing that nothing changes until that bedrock belief is solidified. </p><p>Whether speaking on a podcast, a stage, or one-on-one, Sue&apos;s enthusiasm is contagious, shining the light of hope wherever the listener needs. </p><p>In today’s episode we cover: </p><ul><li>The first step to breaking the stigma around mental health struggles </li><li>How helping others keeps you encouraged</li><li>The healing power of owning your story</li><li>The coping mechanisms Sue used to cope with trauma</li><li>What to do when you’re having a dark day</li><li>How Sue’s faith helped her through her mental health struggles</li><li>The impact therapy can have on your mental health</li><li>The importance of honoring yourself </li><li>The difference between ownership and s