Healing Out Loud: The Story Behind the Smile
- maryrburrell
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Because surviving isn’t the same as healing
As we know mental health doesn’t always come with a warning sign. It’s not as visible as a cast or a scar. Sometimes, it’s the smile you wear when you’re barely holding it together. And for those of us living with chronic illness, caregiving, or navigating life after trauma, mental health isn’t a side note—it’s the whole story.
So let me say this loud and clear: your mental health matters. Your heart, your mind, your spirit, they’re all connected. You can’t care for one and ignore the others.
I’ve lived through hospice care, survived a life-saving heart procedure, stood by my husband during his cancer journey, and stepped into advocacy. I’ve had to dig deep, real deep, to keep showing up. But let me be real with you—surviving doesn't mean you escape without scars.
Trauma isn’t always loud. Some days, it’s a whisper—an old memory, a random smell, a wave of grief you didn’t see coming. Other days, it screams, hijacking your nervous system, convincing you that you're not safe, even when you are.
I used to think I had to be strong all the time—especially as a woman, especially as an advocate. Like if I showed vulnerability, I’d lose credibility or my identity. But I’ve learned something powerful along the way: needing help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
We were never meant to carry this alone. Therapy, prayer, journaling, movement, rest, boundaries—those aren’t luxuries. They’re tools I’ve leaned on to survive the darkest seasons.
And if you’re in that space right now—where the weight feels too heavy, where healing feels too far—I see you. You’re not broken. You’re healing. And healing isn’t pretty or perfect. Some days it looks like a green smoothie, other days it’s canceling plans or crying in the shower. That’s still healing.
So let me offer a few truths I’ve had to learn the hard way:
✨ It’s okay to not be okay.We’ve all worn the “I’m fine” mask. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is take it off.
✨ Check in with your strong friends.Being strong doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling. It just means they’re used to carrying it quietly.
✨ Therapy isn’t taboo.Neither is prayer. Or journaling. Or rest. Whatever gets you through—use it without shame.
✨ You are not alone.Even if it feels that way. Someone else understands. Someone else needs your story.
I know what it’s like to feel invisible. To juggle caregiving, illness, advocacy, and still feel like you’re falling short. But here’s the beauty in all of it: we heal louder when we heal together.
If you’re struggling, please talk to someone. And if you’re in a good place right now, reach back. Mental health is a shared effort. Let’s keep showing up for each other.
💬 Need resources? Start here:
Drop a 🥑 in the comments if you're standing with me this Mental Health Month. And share this with someone who needs to feel seen.
From my heart to yours,
Mary