Celebrity Life

Maxene Magalona opens up about dealing with complex PTSD

By Maine Aquino

Maxene Magalona admits to experiencing a mental health condition known as Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or C-PTSD.

In a lengthy Instagram post on Thursday, May 20, Maxene recalled how she found out that she has the symptoms of such mental health condition.

The actress began with this thought, “I've always wondered why it's socially acceptable for people with physical illnesses to go to the hospital for treatment while those with mental health conditions have to hide and pretend like they don't have it?”

Then, she continued by sharing how she started noticing something different about herself.

“A couple of years ago, I found myself under a lot of stress, dealing with bouts of anxiety and having episodes of rage.

"I was an adult having embarrassing tantrums but I couldn't really understand where all the anger was coming from.”

Maxene also confessed that she did some things when she was drunk, which prompted her to seek medical help.

“When I was drunk, I would punch and kick doors, cry uncontrollably and scream as though I was calling out for help.

"This was the reason I quit drinking alcohol and finally began seeking psychiatric help early last year."

"I'll admit that I was hesitant to go at first because I thought that psychiatric therapy was for people who were 'insane.'

"But I was determined to find out the root cause of my problems so I mustered up the courage to go and to be honest, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. “

During consultation, her doctor said that she is showing symptoms of a mental health condition called Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or C-PTSD, a type of psychological disorder.

“My therapist helped me figure out that I was experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition known as Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or C-PTSD which is a psychological disorder that can develop due to prolonged and repeated interpersonal trauma.

“This was the reason why I was feeling helpless and had difficulty controlling my emotions.

"After we figured out what the problem was, I began taking the necessary steps to heal such as regular therapy, daily yoga, meditation and prayer.”

Maxene admitted that she used to go to the clinic discreetly because she was embarrassed.

But now, she is speaking up to give courage to others who are in need of medical attention.

“I was ashamed to be seen at a psychiatrist's clinic but now, especially with what's going on in the world today, I believe it's time we #endthestigma of mental health and start talking about it so that those who need help won't be afraid to seek it.”

In the end of her post, Maxene stressed the importance of understanding one's mental health and connecting with God to help patients go through the traumas and pain.

"Remember that #youarenotyourmind and although thoughts can be overwhelming, trust that you have the power to heal your past traumas and pain.

"I'm actually glad I found out about my condition because it made me connect to God more than anything and I believe in my heart that He was the one who helped me through it all. 🙏🏼 #mentalhealthawarenessweek

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