
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re continuing to spotlight the stories of our colleagues, each one a powerful reminder of how community can shape and support our mental health.
Today, we’re spotlighting Meg, Food Technologist, who opens up about her mental health journey. From a diagnosis in her teens to the daily habits, therapy, and support systems that keep her grounded today.
Harrods: Thank you so much for your time today, Meg. What does mental wellbeing mean to you?
Meg: To me, mental wellbeing is about feeling calm and clear-headed in everyday life. It’s that sense of balance where I’m not overwhelmed, and I can recognise how I’m truly feeling about what’s going on. It’s about being in touch with my emotions, and knowing how to navigate the tough moments. I’ve been through a lot, so finding that equilibrium is crucial. It’s something I keep top of mind.
Harrods: When did you first realise how important it is to take care of your mental health?
Meg: I first realised the importance when I was 16. After a significant change in my family life, just after my GCSEs, I went through a really difficult period. I became withdrawn, stopped talking to my dad, and leaned heavily on my mum. On top of that, I started sixth form at a school that was very high-pressure. It was all about getting top grades. I just wasn’t in the right headspace, and it all became too much.
That’s when I was diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety. Back then, support was limited. I tried antidepressants, but they didn’t work for me; they made me feel numb, like I wasn’t feeling anything at all.
Harrods: You were so young when all of this happened. With limited support and antidepressants not working for you, how did you start finding your own ways to take care of your mental health?
Meg: Over time, I’ve learned to identify my triggers and recognise when I’m starting to spiral. Overthinking and catastrophising are big ones for me. I used to let stress build up until it became overwhelming. Now, I’ve developed small daily habits that really help - like going for long walks. Just getting outside and moving for a couple of hours clears my head. I also try to keep up with things that bring me joy and energy.
During this time, I met my partner, who’s really outgoing, and his energy helped pull me out of that place. I also started therapy, which was invaluable. Talking through everything, reconnecting with my dad, and working on healing together was a huge turning point.
Harrods: What’s your main motivation now to prioritise your wellbeing and keep those routines going?
Meg: A big part of it is knowing that it doesn’t just affect me. It impacts the people I care about. I have a partner, a dog, and I’ve seen how my energy affects them. When I’m not taking care of myself, I’m not easy to be around. I become snappy, shut myself off, and struggle to see things in a positive light. That fogginess is tough.
So now, I try to keep things in balance. Not perfectly, but in a way that ensures I’m doing things that help me feel good and grounded. I’ve seen the consequences when I don’t, and I don’t want to go back to that.
Harrods: You seem to have such strong self-awareness. Where do you think that comes from?
Meg: People tell me that a lot! I think it’s because I went through a lot at a young age. I had to grow up quickly. Not just for me, but also because I had a younger brother, and in a small town, people talk. There was pressure to keep it together and just get on with things.
Harrods: Do you think community plays a role in mental wellbeing?
Meg: Absolutely. For me, it’s about having something constant. It could be a friend, a family member, or even a pet. Knowing something or someone is always there, waiting for you, really helps. It’s made a huge difference in how I view day-to-day life.
Harrods: How has community played a role in your journey?
Meg: At first, I didn’t want help. I pushed people away because I didn’t think I deserved it. But over time, I realised how much my parents had done for me. Never forcing anything, just being there. My partner is incredibly patient, and my friends have been amazing.
I was the first in my group to be diagnosed, which felt isolating. But it actually helped others open up. One of my friends sought help because she saw me go through it. I became a support person for her, and that mutual trust and honesty became really important.
Harrods: Are there any routines or rituals that help you stay connected?
Meg: Yes! My friends and I do something called Waffle Wednesdays. We send voice notes to each other once a week, just checking in. There’s no pressure to reply immediately; you listen when you can. One of my friends lives in Spain and is about to move to Japan, so it helps keep us close even across time zones. I really look forward to it every week.
Harrods: Finally, if you could say something to your 16-year-old self, what would it be?
Meg: I’d tell her: “There’s so much more to life than what’s happening right now.” At 16, I had just been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and I felt like I’d lost everything. But I’d tell her those 20 minutes in the GP’s office don’t define you. Yes, they shape you, but they don’t own you.
Now, ten years later, I’m confident, calm, and genuinely happy. That diagnosis is just a part of my story. It doesn’t control me. I’d remind her that she’s not alone, she’s loved, and one day, everything will be okay.
Harrods: Thank you for sharing so openly, Meg.
Meg: Thank you for giving me the space to talk about it.
Let’s Stay in Touch
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