Rebekah Ballagh: Turning Personal Struggles into Mental Health Advocacy
Rebekah Ballagh: Turning Personal Struggles into Mental Health Advocacy
In the realm of mental health advocacy, few stories are as inspiring as that of Rebekah Ballagh. Known affectionately as Becks, this Nelson-based influencer has transformed her personal struggles into a beacon of hope for thousands worldwide.
The Journey to Wellness
Becks’ journey began with a simple Instagram account, @journey_to_wellness_, dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health. Through her cute illustrations and bite-sized wisdom, she has garnered a dedicated following of over 322,000 people, half of whom reside overseas, primarily in the US.
A Book Born from Adversity
Her success on social media led to an unexpected opportunity: writing a book. “Note to Self: The Secrets of Calm” is a 190-page guide that helps readers tackle everyday issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The book, inspired by her popular Instagram account, offers simple tools to cope with stress and anxiety, helping readers envision a calmer and more manageable future.
Becks’ path to publishing wasn’t easy. She wrote the book while living in an 80sqm house with her husband, mother, stepfather, and four dogs. Despite the challenges, she spent every minute her daughter was asleep creating over 200 illustrations and drafting the book’s uplifting copy.
A Life Shaped by Mental Health
Becks’ understanding of mental health issues began at an early age. With an uncle who committed suicide at 20 and a mother who suffered from post-natal depression and agoraphobia, she was exposed to the realities of mental health struggles from a young age. Becks herself has experienced anxiety and panic attacks, which she has learned to manage through various coping strategies.
From Counselling to Influencing
Before her social media success, Becks worked as a high school counsellor, helping students cope with issues ranging from eating disorders to self-harm and attempted suicide. The intensity of the job inspired her to start her Instagram account, aiming to reach those who couldn’t afford counselling services.
Her success on Instagram allowed her to leave her counselling job after maternity leave. Now, she’s working on a children’s book about anxiety with Christchurch influencer Jess Urlichs. She also hopes to return to face-to-face counselling in the form of workshops for women.
The Power of Kindness
Becks’ kindness is evident in her interactions. When asked about dealing with grief, she advises, “It’s important to allow space for your emotions, so that when they come up you can acknowledge them and try to be gentle with yourself. Treat yourself as you would treat a small child.”
Her journey is a testament to the power of turning personal struggles into tools for helping others. Through her book and social media presence, Becks continues to inspire and support those dealing with mental health issues.
