The Unseen Burden: A Mother’s Journey Through Stress and Psychosis
Megan Finn, a 27-year-old mom of two from Belfast, has bravely shared her harrowing journey of how stress and pressure led her to the brink of psychosis. What began as excitement for her wedding and managing her nail salon quickly spiraled into a nightmare of sleepless nights, drastic weight loss, and hallucinations. Megan’s story is a raw reminder of the dangers of glorifying stress and the importance of prioritizing mental health.
The Perfect Storm: Wedding Preparations and Pandemic Chaos
Megan’s troubles began in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing her to reschedule her wedding repeatedly. As her big day approached, the stress mounted. She was juggling her struggling nail salon, homeschooling her two young children, and preparing for her wedding, all while her husband, Jordan, worked as an essential worker. The constant juggling act took a toll on Megan’s mental and physical health. She lost 90 pounds, dropped four dress sizes, and began experiencing paranoia and auditory hallucinations. Friends and family chalked it up to wedding nerves, but deep down, Megan knew something was terribly wrong.
A Breaking Point: Hallucinations and the Honeymoon
Megan and Jordan finally tied the knot on July 9, 2022, but the relief she felt was short-lived. Just days later, during their family honeymoon in Spain, Megan’s mental state deteriorated further. She became convinced that Jordan had fallen off their balcony and even believed her sister was an MI5 agent plotting against her. Her symptoms became so severe that a Spanish doctor advised her to return home. The trip back to Belfast ended in chaos when Megan was sectioned by police and admitted to the Acute Mental Health Inpatient Centre, where she spent nearly 10 weeks undergoing treatment.
The Road to Recovery: Finding Stability After Psychosis
Megan’s time in the mental health unit was a turning point. She was placed on antipsychotic medication and underwent intensive therapy. It took three different medications to pull her out of her psychotic state, but eventually, she began to heal. After being discharged, she was connected with a psychiatrist and a community mental health nurse, who continue to support her recovery. Megan has learned to recognize the early warning signs of a relapse—such as sleeplessness, weight loss, and impulsive spending—and has made a conscious effort to prioritize her mental well-being.
A Warning to Others: The Dangers of Glamorizing Stress
Now stable and on the path to reclaiming her life, Megan wants to use her experience to warn others about the dangers of glamorizing stress. She believes society often romanticizes the idea of women “having it all” without acknowledging the toll it can take on their mental health. Her message is clear: it’s not healthy to pretend everything is okay when it’s not. By speaking openly about her struggles, Megan hopes to encourage others to seek help before things spiral out of control.
A New Chapter: Rediscovering Strength and Advocating for Mental Health
Megan’s journey is a testament to resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. She has learned to set boundaries and embrace her limitations, recognizing that true strength lies in asking for support. Today, Megan is focused on rebuilding her life, reconnecting with her family, and advocating for mental health awareness. Her story is a powerful reminder that stress is not something to be worn as a badge of honor. Instead, it’s a sign that something needs to change. By sharing her truth, Megan hopes to inspire others to prioritize their well-being and break free from the pressure of perfection.
