Telling You the Truth

[@VBirchwood]

I wanted to finally open up about what my life has really been like ❤ Please note: there's flashing candlelight from 13:54 to 14:27. Mental health looks different for everyone, so these are just my experiences and what I have learned along the way. Also, I am not a doctor and none of this is medical advice. If you are in emotional distress, please contact your doctor, emergency services, or 988lifeline.org/

[@welcometotheravensnest]

Thinking of you Vasi ❤ and sending you love. Thankyou for your videos, because of you I made my first 1850s skirt completely from scratch, and I'm registered blind, so this was no mean feat but you made it so easy I managed to do it 😊 thankyou for everything ❤

[@VBirchwood]

Wow , thank you for your beautiful comment@@welcometotheravensnest Congrats on the 1850s skirt! I hope you enjoy wearing it for many years to come 😊

[@catherineleslie-faye4302]

Thank you for sharing this. I have PTSD along with several chronic physical illnesses so life is rarely easy and I take joy in all the bright moments. Sending you love always forever.

[@janeevans4758]

I see you ❤ everything that you have just so perfectly addressed has plagued myself since I was but a small child. Wishing you peace & joy and that you always gain the strength to grow day by day. Sending love ❤.

[@strategicgamingwithaacorns2874]

@@VBirchwood Have you ever considered collaborating with (or at least looking up) the KZbinrs Paige Layle and "I'm Autistic, Now What"? I'm on the Autism Spectrum (diagnosed PDD-NOS when I was 3), and hearing you talk about having to muster enough energy to actually do stuff was all too relatable.

[@AllTheHappySquirrels]

I don't think any creator should feel obligated to do a "day in my life" video. That said, your struggles with mental health issues resonate for me and I'm grateful for your vulnerability and openness. CPTSD is a real pain, right? I'm glad you've come to a better place with yourself. We all deserve to experience a life of joy and safety. ❤ And the cinematography in this video is just gorgeous.

[@VBirchwood]

I agree 😊 Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed the video ❤

[@cozyaboutbooks]

@@VBirchwood I think that video with "day in my life" invade to much creator private live. You share with us your passion and pov on life. That should be enough

[@SirNomad]

@@VBirchwood even though you don't owe us this, I really love that you thought enough about us that you wanted to make this video. Thank you very much, I think you're an awesome person! I also wanted to say that I appreciate your validation of therapy, I started therapy last fall myself, and your positivity about it is encouraging too!

[@isabellalucia7820]

The borderline between private and public is very blurred on KZbin and you tread it with courage and delicacy, which is having (even just from the comments) a positive impact on so many people. But don’t ever feel you’ll lose your audience if you step back away from the personal. Your content very much speaks for itself - every carefully planned, beautifully filmed and meticulously edited shot says as much about joy/gratitude/quiet living as anything you tell us about your experiences. Such is the nature of the very best paradoxical relationships.

[@maryhildreth754]

I'm very glad you're here.

[@VBirchwood]

I knew my tears would start welling up soon ❤ Thank you so much!

[@maryhildreth754]

@@VBirchwood you are welcome, and I am very proud of you.

[@gwyddionz.4210]

I also have C-PTSD, and had an odd feeling that was where you were going with this. Sending love & healing your way. 🌈

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you!! Sending lots of love and healing your way also. It's incredible how many of us that experience c-PTSD share similarities with our stories (whilst of course many differences too).

[@Godisgreat-777]

I randomly found this video. I really needed it. I cried through a lot of it because it made me feel less alone in my suffering and my own C-PTSD. I have been doing EMDR for my trauma as well. It’s taking a long time but it’s slowly working healing miracles in my life. I’m so sorry for your hurt and suffering. ❤️Thank you so much for this video. It was very touching and helpful for me. ❤️

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much for your beautiful comment. Wishing you continued healing, peace, and joy 💕

[@Godisgreat-777]

@@VBirchwood ❤️

[@azylisemiku6117]

I am sooo happy you are doing better and finding more joy in your life. It is so hard to find contentment whith PTSD/c-PTSD. Your hard work is paying off and I am grateful you feel safe enough to share this with us.❤

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@ChanakyanStudent7971]

Filling the cup to the brim and taking in the first sips to avoid spilling when picking up the cup might be the most relatable moment I've seen on a KZbin video

[@samstruys3088]

Never change, unless you want to. But you are a absolutely wonderful person. At times I wonder how disturbing it is that we have created a society in which we watch KZbinrs who just show themselves. Seriously, it is absurd in many ways. Then I come across someone like you. Watching you, with your backstory is like reading a fine book on how we could do it differently, dare I say better? Not to do exactly what you do but rather to be ourselves, unadulterated, to slow down. Please, amidst the many people showing what they eat, their hauls, flaunting consumerism, backing up brands like Temu, showing off money and lifestyles… there you are…. If I had been a KZbinr we would have at least 2 things in common. I too would remain private and I too would share my mental struggles because if the people with a Voice, the so- called influencers ( Very much dislike that concept.) don‘t use it to break down the shame surrounding being neurodivergent… who will?…. Really funny, I was just ready to ditch KZbinrs and here you are. More normal than the mainstream and more special than those trying so hard to catch attention. Happy I have come across you. You really show you get to make different choices. This 50- year woman has loads of respect for you. Keep showing them, the world even if it is just you being, you…. :). Have a lovely day and big hugs.

[@TheBriar_123]

I have PTSD and ADD and the “doing the simplest of things each day has been a challenge for me” really resonated. Getting into a routine, sticking with it and not just floating through life unaware is such a hard thing to overcome, especially when you would rather not be present/have the memories flood in. ❤ you’re one of my favorite people online. Thank you for this glimpse into your life.

[@solangelalebron1348]

I have a hard time doing simple chores as well, but I don't call it depression. I call it extreme sadness which shows in my no motivation and lack of ambition. Idk why people started defining sadness as depression. Sadness is a simple word. A depression is something governmental or architectural, it doesn't define a human. For example People, Places or Things. Well depression would only be assigned to Places and things not people. But whatevs. If you humans want to call sadness depression that is on Ya'll, but it is WRONG. A depression in a person doesn't make sense. Another interesting thing is that in my 40+ years of life, no medical staff have called 'sadness' by its actual name. They have always use the word 'Depression'. Humans don't want to face the truth.

[@Athlynne]

I can relate; my depression began at age 11, too. I eventually learned I'm autistic, years too late for any help in childhood, and that helped a bit, just knowing. But I still struggle, and am watching this video with wide eyes and even renewed hope. I really admire your bravery and spirit, and see SUCH an old soul when I look at you. I can tell you've been through a lot, yet here you are, being present every moment. I wish you all the good luck and happy surprises in the world.

[@crochetknit1845]

Thank you for opening up. It took me years (close to two decades) to finally get the help I needed. It's not that there weren't any health professionals around, but that I tried so desperately to "have" what they diagnosed me with. Certainly, three years ago, the landlord canceled my lease, my boss cut my hours, than Covid and I got let go from my job while in a psychiatric hospital. And finally, I met the woman who changed my life, my therapist. It was tough going, I went through the motions but now I have a new job, finally the lessons learnt are not mere intellectual ideas but have real life use. And I look around and am carefully joyful. Sometimes I am scared that it will be snatched away, this hope, finally having MY space in society. Thank you for having the strength to tell your story. People talk how they survived cancer and we, who have survived "ourselves" (I have tried to be gone several times), feel almost ashamed of talking about our remarkable journey. Stay safe, stay content, stay connected. Much love from Germany!

[@snacktivist]

It's so important not to be defined by what we may be struggling with. I have many diagnoses, one of which is anorexia, and I remind myself constantly not to say "I have anorexia" or "I am anorexic."

[@welcometotheravensnest]

Also, this was incredibly brave of you ❤

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you ❤

[@manaspajamas5071]

You have every right to keep your life as private or public as you want. But I am truly grateful for what you shared in this video, this is exactly what I needed to hear today; I teared up many times throughout it. I am struggling with my mental health, but am unable to do anything about it at present. Thank you for being vulnerable. You didn't have to be, but because you were, I don't feel so alone anymore.

[@MissingRaptor]

As someone on their own complex mental health journey, thank you for sharing your story. Therapy really should be fully accessible to everyone any any country that doesn't permit this is doing their citizens a major disservice and costing themselves (or their citizens, depending on whether they have universal health care or not), far more money down the line in medical bills.

[@haleyhoudini]

"The Body Keeps Score" was the book that helped me start freling safe in my body with CPTSD. It is wonderful and healing to see comraderie and solidarity expressed in your video and the comments. We are not alone. ❤ Im very proud of everyone here for doing their best to take care of themselves when they can. We deserve it.

[@VBirchwood]

It's a wonderful book! I'm so glad you're feeling safer in your body too 🥰 I'm so proud of everyone here as well, we are all so deserving of lives filled with love and joy (and to really feel safe in that joy) ❤️

[@Judoka26]

I'm glad you found the correct diagnosis! I'm a fellow c-PTSD sufferer. I'm impressed at all the things you did in this video, it's so very calming. I hope to find energy to do more cosy things like you did here 😊

[@svenjas3600]

ADHD and depression here, the depression being caused by undiagnosed ADHD. During my worst times of depression, I stayed in a darkened room all day and couldn't do anything. That lasted for about 2 years. I still feel that this time of my life was just... lost. I didn't really live it, it simply passed me by while I was standing still. So I get what you mean. I find it incredibly courageous that you opened up in this manner and talked about it so openly, because this is really, really hard. And I'm so happy for you that you're feeling better. But please know that you don't have to do that again just because you did it once. Everyone needs at least the privacy of their own head.

[@nadia.lewis.]

As someone who has been on a long path of healing myself, I’m so proud of you for keeping the light of hope alive in your heart. 💕

[@ScottHebertArt]

brave! you're amazing, keep going and best of luck with the mental/physical health going forwards

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you very much 😊

[@maryhamric]

Thank you for sharing. My husband has CPTSD. You are right that healing is so dependent on the right therapist and environment. It is so lovely to hear you on the path to recovery.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you 😊 wishing all the best to you and your husband as well!

[@marshallwebber9682]

Thank you for your courage to tell your story. It helps those of us who aren't ready to tell our own yet.

[@Sapphire_Harley]

Thank you for your bravery in sharing this, and I'm so glad you got the correct diagnosis. I, too, spent years in therapy with an incorrect set of diagnoses, plateauing after minimal progress. Two years ago, I started with a new therapist who recognized that I had C-PTSD in our first session. (I am grateful for her expertise, as the current psychiatric discourse recognizes that emotional abuse can also cause PTSD, even though the DSM has not yet caught up to acknowledge it, too.) My progress in that time has been astounding. I have cut contact with my abusers, grown in my Christian faith, am actively improving my relationships, and have so much hope from my decrease in symptoms. As you shared in your video, it truly is life-changing. ❤

[@LadyofThePines]

Seeing you in this light gives me hope that my c-ptsd won't always keep me from enjoying life. Miigwetch (thank you) for being here and for sharing your experience.

[@VBirchwood]

❤️❤️❤️

[@LiljaHusmo]

I'm so proud of you, you really have moved mountains to be where you are now! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ I appreciate you sooo much 🥰

[@CloudyNebula]

This is an extremely brave and bold video. Thank you so much for your openness, and I hope that you continue to be well from now on. Massive hugs to you 🤗🤗🤗

[@vampyran]

I'm unsure if I should "thank you" for this video; that sounds a bit... I don't know, I can't explain it. But I'm still going to say thank you. And thank you for not giving up. I lost my best friend from depression a couple of years ago, and since then (in only these two and a half years), I've felt there are so many new things, new ways to treat people, and new explanations for past diagnoses that I feel angry she didn't keep on going for a little bit longer. But I totally understand why she gave up; that's the scary and sad part. It also makes me even more grateful for everyone else who keeps on going, knowing (only secondhand, though) how hard it is to keep on going when it seems like not just the world but your whole body is working against you. I also want to say thank you for your videos! They're so good and so different from others. I love the slow pace

[@angeladent4175]

This resonated so much with me. At 58 yrs old I have taken a back seat on the world. I just want to be able to get through each day as well as I can. I am happy in my existence, probably the happiest I have ever been. My crafts are my salvation and I am grateful for every day of peace. Hoping you continue to progress and Thankyou for sharing.

[@amysbees6686]

Well done, Angela! I turn 58 this year, so I can relate on that level. Happiness may be fleeting, but gratitude is much more long lasting.

[@werelemur1138]

You have the same dishes as my grandmother. She was also a Buddhist, though she came to it later in life. I was diagnosed with PTSD as a teenager. I'm still here, mostly out of sheer stubbornness. Thank you for your honest, hopeful video.

[@peggywoods4327]

I am a mental health worker. I have only been doing this for 5 years, so I'm just scratching the surface of all this. I feel like we are just starting to learn about all the different diagnoses and treatments. I have also noticed that a good many of the content creators I follow each have their own struggles and challenges. So one of the benefits I get is it helps me understand mental health struggles better so that I can be more helpful to whomever I may encounter. AND I hope that watching enough of your content will inspire me to start sewing and crafting again. Your work is lovely.

[@JustToSaveYou]

I have multiple types of mental health diagnoses, I also have migraines and chronic pain. It's a hard road, there's set-backs, and it's harder some days than others. From me to you, I'm really glad to hear you're finding healing.

[@clairbear1234]

I have a similar story, many therapist tried but failed, some made things worse. It was actually a boyfriend that helped me understand life events that happened to me was causing my sense of detachment and pain. If you ever want to talk, just know this internet stranger is always here. Thank you for being your beautiful self

[@opticalexcellence-wendytob862]

I did EMDR for several years when I was in therapy. I was in therapy for 20 years. I too have CPTSD, PTSD, social anxiety and depression. I also self-diagnosed that I could be Low needs Autistic as well. For the record, I’m a 5 time SA survivor starting about the tender age of five or six. My life has been and still is difficult. I’m now 71 years young. I wish you peace, calmness and contentment. Love your channel.

[@HBCrigs]

we are on the same journey, it seems. Somatic, overintellectualized, dissociated and isolated. I really feel that I'm attracted to your videos because that work of connecting to the indigenous roots of our ancestors, to the lessons they taught that we never had the chance to learn, whether in sewing, cooking, tending the land, tending our bodies- this is the same work as somatic healing. We are all slowly reforesting the place that our soul lives. Reforesting our own selves, and ending the reign of terror from which we all feel as generational scars. best wishes, may your bowl never be empty

[@emmastrawdinger873]

From another who struggles with mental health; I see you, and I appreciate you.

[@cattails1166]

You are incredibly courageous to open up as you have. I hope that responses will show that you are not alone! So many people, especially in recent years have become mentally unwell. I think that beautiful, sensitive souls suffer most, and it is not their fault, but the fault of a world that lacks empathy and compassion all too often. Your videos are beautiful and inspirational to so many! The world needs that, and the world needs you!

[@doglover868]

This video truly spoke to my soul, and to my experience dealing with my own mental health. I too have been diagnosed with OCD (pure O) and adhd. I cannot even being to express how grateful I am for the creation of such a wise, compassionate and inspiring video. Several moments lead me to bawl from feeling recognized and seeing as to how I am still not alone, no matter how long or complex my journey. Your words about the body doing the best it can to protect itself opened up the floodgates for addressing the frustration I often feel with myself for presenting symptoms. I held myself while I wept, asking myself for forgiveness for being so hard on me, and recognizing every part of me is doing the best it can. This is truly a piece of art I will be referencing in the future. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

[@kristenpeters4434]

I cried a little seeing your real smile ❤ So much of what you’ve shared echoes my own experiences, especially dissociation. I’m so glad to hear you have some excellent supports, and it’s helping. Thank you for your openness. I hope it feels healing 💕

[@pluezilvlk8427]

C-ptsd sucks, thank you for sharing ❤

[@Stelune]

I've been binging your videos since finding them for the first time a weekish ago. Honestly, it was the first thing in awhile that gave me some joy. I also hand sewed an apron with your tutorial which I would never have the confidence to do normally. It's 3am and this was the video that found me today, I am crying and hearing these words at the end during such a hard mental health time feels almost magical. Like every path I take leads to this message to keep going. Thank you for making this and making all of your videos.I hope this last year has been kind to you

[@MalvinkaSmith]

The 14-minute and 53-second video felt more like a powerful TED talk on self-love, self-care, and inner peace than a typical "day in my life" KZbin video. Although I may not personally relate to the struggles mentioned, I truly appreciate the determination and strength it takes to share such intimate details. This kind of content is rare and valuable on KZbin these days. Thank you again for the beautifully made video and content. ~ Your new subscriber.

[@IonIsFalling7217]

I’m so glad you’re feeling safe and happier! A slow life is SO GOOD for our mental health!

[@melissel5648]

Once again I'm so moved by a video of you 🖤 Being so vulnerable is truly admirable, I wish you all the best in your healing journey, so happy you're getting better!

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@roryfontaine4992]

Thank you for sharing this part of your experience. As someone with c-ptsd who only started enjoying life to a noticeable degree about two years ago, this video was extremely comforting and relatable to watch. I am as deeply sorry you had to struggle for so long as I am happy to know things are finally getting significantly better for you. Something you mentioned that hit home in particular for me was feeling not only better in your own body, but like you can be present in it at all, and at peace with that. This feeling is in part what helps me recognize how much happier I am and how much better I'm healing now. Things still get really tough sometimes of course, but now they don't feel so much like they're deciding factors in whether or not I can make it another day. For anyone else struggling with these things: It does get worse, at first. But then it gets so, so, so, SO much better. Trust me.

[@laurawilliams7782]

So glad you have an excellent therapist and that you're getting into a better place. Also braiding sweetgrass is an amazing book.

[@wildrandomness]

Thank you for your candor Vasi.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you for listening ❤

[@lolajl]

That soup looks so delicious - full of most of my favorite ingredients! Gotta give these parsnips a bit of a tryout. I think I'll give this a go next week as we're heading into chilly weather and I need to increase my store of quick and easy recipes. Thank you ...

[@julicorn2289]

I tried living like a healthy person, ignoring my disability, and of course it wasnt working, therapy, meds and learning about my disability helped a little bit, the accomodations I could make for myself, but it wasnt enough. Today I talked with my psychiatrist about getting official disability status, he said with my ADHD and long lasting Depression and anxienty I will probably get it. This would also help me find a job that I can manage. And I also am the type of person who tries to help others especially if they have simmilar things going yet I very often forget to help myself.

[@anne-mariepaul958]

Thank you so much for showing this kind of courage. I have been in some kind of psycho - /body therapy since I was 24 - now I am 64. Some Years ago I learned about the terms: C PTSD and Developmental Trauma - and it is changing my life. It is first and foremost focusing on the whole person and on different ways to work with trauma and not just speech therapy. I have also paid most of the therapy myself - could probably have bought a new house for the money. For me it has been a question of life or no life at all. I am now starting on the last path of my pilgrim road working with Internal Family System to sort some deeply traumatic issues out. thank you again for your honesty.

[@nimuek3107]

❤Love❤ I agree so strongly about the importance of access to mental health care.

[@figtree6356]

While the details of our lives are all different, the common thread of human experience is available to us all in a myriad of ways. Under the surface, the makeup of our spirit, provides such a comfort and even melancholic beauty to me. I experience life first, as poetry; it's been how I process and move through the world for as long as I can remember, and seeing the poetic way you live with such intention, not keeping secrets from yourself, has been such a gift. Thank you for sharing what you feel compelled to share, and thank you for the tenderness you weave into each video. Much love and light to you, friend.

[@JustSaralius]

Thank you for this! I never expect you or anyone else to share personal information or feelings they aren't comfortable sharing. Sometimes it is a truth we need to share, even though it is also difficult to be so vulnerable, and those stories are very valuable! It can be very disheartening to constantly be faced with doubt and ignorance when you try to reach out for support and use your voice to gain some understanding, so I find it immensely valuable to have these shared experiences with others who do understand - and to find different perspectives on similar experiences. I have self-diagnosed myself (as it isn't even a formal diagnosis yet) with cPTSD which is strongly interlinked with growing up as an undiagnosed autistic ADHDer with (still undiagnosed) somatic issues. The only times I've felt better and like I might recover somewhat from chronic burnout/fatigue and depression has been when I have taken measures to treat the trauma. Unfortunately, I don't have access to appropriate therapy right now, so I have to treat it the best I can on my own. But having some sense of community is a vital part of healing, I think. Especially when attachment is wounded. Thank you for sharing your truth. ❤

[@karinkeeble1993]

❤

[@julietokumaru3855]

I'm 60. I've been working on my issues for four decades. I've had many diagnosis. Sometimes they help. I've learned to keep trying different things when the current one stops being useful. Please keep at it. I have experienced wonderful progress in my healing and my overall health. I have even found muscles in my face that I never felt before when my body relaxed enough to let me really smile. The improvement in your life is truly worth the effort. It's very important to share your journey, for you and for others. Thank you for sharing.

[@SimpleDesertRose]

I don't have c-PTSD but I do have PTSD there are days where the anxiety just goes through the roof. When I got pregnant with my youngest we packed up our family and moved in with my in laws. It was only supposed to be temporary. A launching pad for what was supposed to be a new chapter in our lives. Without going into all the details I will say that the opportunity we thought we had was abruptly taken away from us. Leaving us stuck living in my husband's parent's spare bedroom with 4 small children and a surprise baby on the way. The feelings of insecurity left me in a bad place. So when surprise baby was born I developed postpartum depression. Let me tell you that kinda of depression hurts in the bones. I got real good at hiding my depression from people. It was easier to put on a face and pretend I was happy when I wasn't. It took taking a gamble and moving to another state without a job secured to finally break the depression. It was almost instantly that my husband found a job and we were back standing on our own. It took a lot of bible reading and learning to trust Jesus to finally break the depression. I still have the PTSD but since moving to the homestead and homeschooling my kids, I now have more good days than bad. It took finding peace to truly be able to enjoy life and my children again. So you are not a lone in your journey of trying to stay mentally well. As a creator you shouldn't feel obligated to make a day in my life video. Nor should you feel that you have to explain to everyone why you are the way you are. We all have struggles. Some are physical and others are mental. As a KZbinr you are already putting a certain amount of transparency out there. You are not just making things you are putting yourself out there for all the world to see. That takes quite a bit of courage as it is. Stay strong and keep finding joy and peace. Know that you are not alone. See you in two weeks. Hopefully with some cute puppy action.

[@johnchristopherrobert1839]

I to have had metal health issues starting around 12. This past year has really driven me into the ground. Watching your videos has been helping me be in a petter place. You are a beautiful soul, thank you

[@ellahopkinson]

Thank you for being so open, i relate to this so much as someone who also has adhd and suspected cptsd, i learned a lot from the youtube channel crappy childhood fairy (she has cptsd herself) i highly recommend watching her- she's great. Im so happy for you getting good treatment, I'd love to try emdr I've heard many good things. I am inspired by your ability to share such private things about yourself and how hard you've worked to live this life- i can relate to a lot of what you have described and it gives me hope to see someone i can relate to living in a way i didn't think possible. Wishing you well ❤

[@AysheaBieler]

What a great Statement! You are doing wonderful Work. And from my own experience, i can ashure you ist's getting better and better. Mantras helped a lot,aswell ss Dancing, knitting, sewing,crochetting. And Long walks outside! 30 years after the Same diagnosis treated at first traditionel i learned the Body needs more. Maybe a glance at the four Wind school of Dr. Villoldo may bring another piece of Feeling whole and Safe. Be blessed

[@jillsarah7356]

Vulnerability is powerful. Thank you for sharing

[@hazelbasil4989]

I'm so glad that you're getting better. Having mental health issues can be very difficult, as I can attest to myself. In my case, medication has helped a lot, but it's mainly just to help me not sink down too low. I think having a good support system is the best thing anyone could have, and I don't know where I would be without mine. I'm also glad that you acknowledged that not every therapist is for everyone - you definitely have to click with the person you're going to. (Mine talked a lot, which wasn't very helpful, so I stopped going to see them.) I hope you have the space to be yourself, to feel, and to really experience your life. Good luck with your mental health journey!

[@trenae77]

We approach life from differing theological views (Christianity vs Buddhism) but even within those there are similar truths that echo. I know you will have hard days ahead still - times when it feels like circumstance has taken a side road and the strength you built up has abandoned you. I pray you continue to trust what you have learned, what your body has learned, and the support you have surrounding you and know that you will come through! Praying for peace and continued healing in your life! You are a beautiful person inside and out, and you deserve to hear that every day.

[@HiSummerWasHere]

This video was visually and emotionally beautiful, thank you for sharing with us ❤

[@Angiesmangie09]

2:07-2:40 I feel that so much. Thank you for putting it so beautifully.

[@ShaunRF]

This comment is very late, but I just wanted to applaud your bravery and willingness to be vulnerable and share this part of yourself. Thank you.

[@iowythhezelulthiin2598]

You're so amazing!! I've been through a very similar journey as you and found a lot of peace and comfort in sewing and creating clothing based on historical techniques. For me, this helped me to get into my body, to slow down and take space to be more intentionally and this helped me to not only create distance from some of the habits and cultural stuff that was hurting me, but to also reflect on who I wanted to be and how I wanted to live. It's been such a rare privilege to be able to witness your journey.

[@BethAge95]

I can really relate to the story of misdiagnosis. Someone very close to me had been in therapy for about 20 years without anything really fundamentally changing the cycle of depressive episodes and anxiety until they finally found the right combination of therapists who attempted yet a new diagnosis and treatment and it finally worked and they have been happier and healthier in the last years than I ever saw them before. They also never gave up in seeking support and ultimately it worked. It's still very hard to live with trauma, but now there is hope of a somewhat peaceful life not dominated by fear. Thank you for sharing your story. I'm so glad you found the right path for you and I wish that you continue to heal and grow!

[@mahaliathompson3639]

Thank you so much for sharing. Your so encouraging, and give me so much hope for my future self.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you! I’m wishing you all the best, you’ve got this 🥰

[@zorngottes1778]

"The body remembers" There is a lot of truth in this.

[@functionoflightone]

Thank you for sharing. It helps more than you might know. Bless you.

[@melsmith5833]

How deeply personal and brave was this video!! I have also struggled with depression and other areas most of my life. Last November I started up with therapy and am feeling amazingly different now. So, our stories are obviously different but maybe the experience of longing to be free and happy is the same! And then there is lovely sewing that many people enjoy, or other fiber crafts which quietly soothe our savage souls...along with some tea and coffee! I count it a privilege to know you and appreciate your enriching content!

[@ragnkja]

Labels and diagnoses are simply tools, and getting a diagnosis is only the beginning of a healing process, not the end goal. Remember that the bravest thing you can do if you’re struggling is to ask for help. You have been incredibly brave, Vasi, and you still are. You’ve found your way, and are still finding your way, through a world that isn’t always built for how your brain works, and doing the best you can to make your stay in it a good one.

[@VBirchwood]

Agreed 😊 Asking for help and support is so vital.

[@ragnkja]

@@VBirchwood I’m so glad to see you settle into your current situation and becoming content and joyful in it.

[@ragnkja]

@@VBirchwood (Looks like I edited my comment while you were replying to it.)

[@VBirchwood]

@@ragnkja just read the rest of your comment. Thank you so so much!! I’m always so grateful for your support 🥰

[@bethliebman8169]

Hear, hear. Thank you for endorsing the help that mental health practitioners can give. I've gotten real help and support dealing with my bi-polar diagnosis. I try to support the rollback of mental health stigma. I enjoyed this video and a glimpse into your life. BTW, yummy looking soup!

[@pinkbimmer3733]

I needed this today, I thank you so much for being so vulnerable I didn't have a way to put this in words as eloquently as you.

[@alexisasheep6554]

ah to feel joy again. it's basically my life goal at this point and once I can feel true joy again I want to enjoy life as much as I can. I don't really care about anything else when it comes to me, anything else I do is for the people I love and their future, otherwise I probably would be somewhere else rn. I call it learning to live again and I'm fortunate enough to live in a country that gives me chance after chance to do that.

[@paavobergmann4920]

Thank you very much for this. yes we need to share our experiences with mental health more, and, idk, bleach out the stigma still associated with it. Again, thank you. I felt I learned, re-learned and remembered many important things listening and watching. I also had learned that depersonalisation creeping in again is the warning sign for me that reads "that´s it, you´re not ok, take a break, or we are going back to the dreary place". I am happy for you that you are feeling better, and I am amazed by what you built for yourself, I really am. It seems a beautiful place. I think we have a similar style of cooking. I wish you all the best for your journey into the sun.

[@LastBlackViolin]

You have beautiful videography! Thank you for the video ^_^

[@salmonella7993]

I could type a novel down here in response to the emotions this made me confront, but i won't. All I'll say is that it cannot be a coincidence this video found me today. I know in my heart that my cat, and best friend of 13 years, who recently passed has led me here. I know I need to take another of the many massive leaps we all have to make to take my life back. Thank you stranger on the internet.

Thank you. Inspired by your words, I did some important selfcare today (that I tend to push off). I'm glad you're doing well and able to create fun content. Take care.

[@emeraldoracle8706]

Thank you for sharing such a personal side of your life. It can be hard to share something so personal. I see such an amazing person and feel previledged to be able to have this peek into your journey. Wishing you continued growth and prosperity and I look forwards to seeing all that you are willing to share with us.

[@michaeltaylor631]

Your honesty is greatly appreciated. I’ve had to experience much of that myself- from my perspective, I can relate.

[@2enigma8]

😭 you’re so amazing! I’m older than you and no where close to being as intelligent and achieved as you are so def should be proud of yourself.

[@atropiaveteran]

I am glad that you found some measure of peace. It took me years before I was even ready for therapy to treat what was ultimately diagnoses as chronic and complex combat related PTSD from my multiple tours in the early years in Iraq. So, do I get a cookie for the Three Cs? Meh, jokes aside, I do like your content and I'm glad I found it today. I needed something uplifting, and your week of medieval food video delivered!

[@shetheconcept]

Dear Vasi, I stumbled across your channel only a month or so ago and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching all your videos as I sew. Your words and gentleness and your dedication to research and sewing really resonates and inspires me. I had wrongly assumed that your life was without its troubles as I think we're prone to do with the snippets we get of people's lives online and I suppose it also acts as an excuse personally as to why I can't have the beautiful and ease-filled Iife I assume you have. This video made me aware of my own faults but also made me all the more endeared to you. So much of what tou described reflects in my own life and its always uncanny to think how much more connected we all are (even from on the other side of the globe!) than we are different. Anyway, thank you for being you and for your honesty. It was a humbling experience 🌼

[@Athlynne]

Thank you, your voice is so soothing, your videos are like anti-anxiety medication for me. :)

[@teitheartist7056]

What a ray of sunshine you are c: This is a video many people needed, me included

[@artawhirler]

Sad to hear about your struggles, but I'm so happy that you're doing better now. I wish you a life full of peace, health and happiness. You deserve it.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

A truly touching, beautiful and brave piece, I'm so glad you took the path you are now on ❤🙏ॐ मणि पद्मे हूँ 🙏❤

[@Readera]

I'm so glad to hear that you have been able to get a diagnosis that is correct for you & that you have gotten better help for your mental health. ❤❤❤

[@seattlegirl2077]

You are already helping others as I think this video will really help someone out there who needs it. I wish you the very best going forward. And that smile you how now seem so pretty and genuine. I look forward to seeing it more often.

[@veronicaaudette7817]

❤ thank you for sharing yourself with us. I am so glad you are in a happier place with your health. It can take so much hard work.

[@condwiramurstally]

Thank you for sharing this. I'm appreciating it as fellow cptsd sufferer. It's only for a good, I'm sure you are helping someone with sharing your story ❤

[@SobakaBlack]

Very powerful and inspiring. I am very happy for you❤

[@TanoxBranar]

Hi V, I only came across your channel the other day (love the content about historical clothing btw) so I wasn't expecting one of the videos to be like this. I am struggling with some similar mental health issues, and have been most my life, so I would just like to say thank you for this video. It's been hard for me recently and this touched me in a way that little else has in recent memory, and given me a glimmer of hope I've really been needing. Right place and right time. You seem like such a wonderful soul, and the empathy you show here is so sincere and powerful. I hope I can emulate at least some of what you've demonstrated - thanks for giving this hopeless soul a small spark of a better tomorrow

[@amysbees6686]

Firstly, thank you so very much for sharing your very personal life with us all. I know full well the challenges of Complex PTSD as a result of childhood trauma. I've strugled with depression since I was 16, and began counseling at 27. I've been on antidepressants for going on 30yrs now. Secondly, I'm very relieved to hear you've found effective and compassionate counseling. From personal experience, I can honestly say that a good counselor is truly a lifesaver. Thirdly, I also deal with OCD, but mildly so. It rarely manifests itself; usually evident as anxiety triggered by childhood trauma experiences. Fourthly, a rewarding spiritual life/practice is absolutely essential in dealing with mental illness/trauma. Speaking of which, I applaud your openness about mental illness awareness, and your intentions for increased access to care. Lastly, do what makes you truly happy. I can say that I greatly appreciate your including us in this. Remember, also, that your private life is yours alone, and is no business of mine or anyone else's. Take care of yourself first always!

[@malwina9580]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I was happy to see Luis Mojica's podcast in your list of recommendations; his course, membership and teachings in general have been HUGE for me in understanding and (most importantly) relating to trauma.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much for watching! Luis Mojica’s work has been huge for my healing as well, so that’s lovely to hear you’ve been so impacted by it as well ❤️

[@ChrisBarnard-vd2fj]

You are a very brave and lovely young lady, I have had some real problems in the past and sometimes they come back, listening to you has helped me no end. I wish you all the very best. Oh, I love your videos, thank you.

[@packrat9433]

I love who you are; it took a lot of guts to make this video. I have been very fortunate in life, but have seen these things up close and personal for people that I care for immensely. I think that you are beautiful, clear and trustworthy as a person. Best wishes - and you are very brave.

[@KateandBree]

You've had a rough life. Houselessness is incredibly traumatic, and I'm sorry that was your life for a year. It can be so hard for any of us with C-PTSD and PTSD to even reckon with our lives. The right therapist is like a small miracle happening. Thank you for showing a part of your life (and please please please please PLEASE share some of your recipes. Your food looks amazing.)

[@user-st8gb9bm6q]

Blessed Be Good Lady. You a joy, thank you for being you and I do feel your pain.

[@David-wr3tq]

Nice of you share your story, peace be with you. Love the sewing videos too by the way.

[@dawnmoriarty9347]

As a retired therapist, I always believed that people began to heal when the time is right for them. All any honest therapist can provide are tools for coping when everything's overwhelming and a safe space for learning to use those tools

[@shugarysubstances]

as someone who also suffered severe trauma their entire life until the past 4-5 years, I really appreciated this video. cptsd is so hard and I feel like a lot of people don't understand it, because in a lot of ways, we ourselves don't even know how to put our feelings into words (at least for me.)