
“When I moved in with @robmananquil, it was honestly like living in a war zone,” said actress Maxene Magalona as she opened up about how her mental health issues have affected her relationship with her husband Rob Mananquil.
In a lengthy post made on Sunday, October 11, Max enumerated the many things she and Rob have experienced during their first year of marriage before being diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder or C-PTSD.
She cited, “When he would try to tell me something in a kind and gentle manner, I would explode and react negatively because it was about something that reminded me of my past. I would instantly lash at him and then cry afterward because I felt horrible for the way I treated him.
“Unfortunately, this went on for a few years because I wasn't aware that I had mental health issues, I was unconsciously abusing my husband by projecting my traumas onto him.”
Maxene went on to detail about her “adult tantrums” that included “punching doors and kicking walls.”
By seeking professional help and doing yoga, Maxene said she was able to regain control of her life.
“I admit that I still get triggered sometimes but thanks to yoga and meditation, I am able to catch myself before I react,” she said.
“Although it takes time, these natural methods help me practice non-reactivity. I'm grateful I chose this holistic path instead of taking medications as I really believe that in order for me to cure my mental health disorder, I need to pull the weeds from within and heal from the inside out.
“It will take a while but this is the least that I can do for my family.”
In a follow-up post, Maxene dedicated her caption to her husband who has been by her side through both the best and worst of times.
“Honoring my dear husband @robmananquil who has seen me at my absolute worst and still chooses to stay by my side and accept me for all that I am,” she said.
“I sincerely apologize for all the times that I unconsciously projected my traumas onto you. Please know that I never meant to cause you pain and suffering.
“Thank you for your seemingly endless patience. Thank you for being my conscious partner.”
She continued to say that Rob is probably “God's greatest gift” to her because he participated in her healing.
“I consider you as God's greatest gift to me as your love has truly been the greatest form of therapy for my healing. Thank you for opening my eyes, for awakening my spirit, and for making my soul sparkle,” she concluded.
Maxene's series of posts is in relation to #WorldMentalHealthDay, a movement she's been advocating since opening up about her mental health struggles last year.