If three years ago people would have told me that everything would get better, I would have merely nodded my head while screaming my disbelief on the inside. I thought things simply could not get better, that I’d be forever trapped in the dark room I felt myself imprisoned inside. While my friends went out, I chose to remain home. When I attended parties, I could not help but think that I’d have had a better time on my own. Even when I was surrounded by others, I felt like a bubble shut me out, like I was somehow different from all the others. And even when I found myself in the Intensive Care department of the hospital, I still could not bring myself to reclaiming my life.

Do you ever feel that way? Well, you are not alone. It took time, but even I, so sceptical at first, learned to envision a recovery. And I envisioned myself writing about this recovery, helping others get on top of things even if at that moment I was not quite sure whether I, myself, would.

My name is Hanne, and I battled my inner demons for over four years. I thought I wanted to be perfect, but it turns out that I never quite knew what that really was.

I am also a survivor, the living proof that if you put your mind to it you, too, can survive and overcome your struggles. If I can do it, so can you. I believe in you. I believe in recovery.

Because of this same reason, I wrote a novel entitled “Just Perfect.” It is a novel that finds its roots in the difficult times I have gone through, and it took me more than three years to write. But it was worth it. It’s definitively worth it. Meant to inspire and help others through the sharing of my personal struggles – experienced by so many others as well -, I believe it would be incredible to share my work with the largest audience possible to convince people of the fact that they are not alone and that they, too, have things worth fighting for.

If you are interested in checking out “Just Perfect” (I hope with all of my heart that it will help you on your road to recovery) you can find it here:

https://www.createspace.com/4888416 (hardcopy)

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QHCWQC0 (Kindle version)

Not only would I, in this way, be able to help others, it would also lift a heavy burden off of my shoulders. Yes, indeed, there were several things that were vital in my recovery, things I could not have survived without. And penning down my thoughts and battles were vital. On top of this, the incessant help of my family was vital. Without them, without being able to share my story with them (particularly my parents and twin sister), I would not have been able to fight as bravely through this struggle as I did. Because you can’t win a battle on your own, and I urge you to find that person to open your heart to.

Writing was the second-most important aspect in my recovery, and it may work for you as well if you give it a try. Take just five minutes each night or fifteen minutes each week – find a time that fits for you – and pen down the thoughts, feelings and events that you encountered during the day. Make sure to note down the positives and the things you are proud of, and repeat them to yourself. Because you are unique, and you are special and talented in your own way.

I mentioned the need to get your story off of your chest – please don’t keep it locked up inside of yourself – and, therefore, if you have anything you want to discuss or need to let go off, I hereby offer you my ears in case you feel the need. Because I know you are worth fighting for. I’m sure of it. To all the fighters, don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to reach out to others and to talk to family, friends, or a professional. I know you can do it – build trust in yourself and make it happen!