In this week's episode, we had the opportunity to interview the brave Mary Tompros.
Mary is Mental Health Advocate
Mary Tompros is a Toronto based mental health advocate, swim teacher and student. She was diagnosed with a mental illness at 14 and is currently living with a chronic audio and visual hallucination. She is very passionate about changing the narrative when it comes to mental illness and the horrific events that have taken place during wellness checks in Canada. Her goal and mission are to remind people to never lose hope, no matter how tough it gets, because they are the light. She created 'Life with a Hallucination' on Instagram in hopes to raise awareness and to let others know that their voice matters.
In our chat with Mary…
Mary bravely opens up about her illness and how being an ‘A-Typical’ case, prevents any kind of regular treatment to work effectively on her. She has been trying to navigate her illness through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Techniques, that help anyone living with a chronic illness. Mary explains that every day is new and different, and how the key to her well-being is, HER! Optimal nutrition, regular sleep and exercise are of her regular regiment. If she does not stay on track, she may get weak and vulnerable.
One thing that might not be commonly well known is how mental illness is connected to suicidal thoughts and actions. Mary shares with us her very personal experience and the stigma around it. “Everyone was hush hush, don’t say anything.” Nobody knew of her condition except her immediate family. By keeping it a secret, she felt that she couldn’t be or express herself properly. Mary felt like she was living in a web of lies until one day she just couldn’t keep up with it all and began sharing her truth. Mary advises that your friends love you more than you know. It is a victory when you share your truth with them. People will never seize to surprise you.
Finally, Mary states that you can indeed live a “normal life” you just have to adjust it to what works best for you. There’s more than one way to live your life. You just have to start exploring. Mary’s purpose is to bring awareness to mental illness. She explains a few signs that could show us that someone in our circle might be going through a mental illness and what to do.
Success to Mary is:
“Being happy with herself everyday”.
Mary’s message to women is:
“Be proud of yourself. The good and the bad, because it made you who you are today.”
To connect with Mary, find her on the following platforms:
IG: @lifewithhallucination
