Nick D’s Mental Health Story
In case you missed it in our newsletter last month, Nick D was our member of the month. Here’s his story…
Community. That’s what sold me on joining CFW Health & Fitness. From day one I was greeted by welcoming smiles and kind words of encouragement by people who made an effort to introduce themselves. As someone who has spent a good part of 3 years fighting to break free from the isolating effects of C-PTSD, I have found my safe place to continue working on my goals of a healthy mind, body and spirit.
I’ve been a paramedic for 17 years. Only recently have I been able to practice self care in the forms of physical activity, meditation and being present, and use them as a driving force to maintain a healthy balance in my life.
I signed up for CrossFit back in December 2020. I was aware another lockdown was imminent, but part of me was hoping we wouldn’t have to go down that road again. As an individual in the front lines, seeing the effects from the first wave of the lockdowns made me hyper-vigilant as to what the second wave would bring. I saw our community suffer from the debilitating effects isolation causes in both lockdowns. Substance misuse was on the rise – overdoses have always been a serious and prevalent issue, but have increased since these lockdown measures came to light, and dare I mention the increase in suicide attempts, along with those who were successful in ending their lives. I signed up for CrossFit needing an outlet after many long, challenging shifts. My plan was just to come in and quietly have a decent workout in the background. Instead, what I found was a community who encouraged conversation and supported my sore hamstrings by sharing in that sentiment, from incredible work outs!
When discussion of a third lockdown manifested, I immediately became anxious. And angry. CFW had already taken measures in securing everyone’s safety. From limiting class sizes, to having plenty of cleaning supplies, supporting the wearing of masks, and providing more than the required 6 feet apart per workout station. When the gym reopened in February, I didn’t just get my gym back…I got my community back – and in return, I was able to restore balance in my life. I could be a present and conscious paramedic by having an outlet in managing my stress. I could be a conscious parent by being present with my son. The thought of having this supportive community taken away from me again … is crippling.
This is why I’m writing this note. To thank all the coaches, Eddie & Chris in choosing to remain open during these challenging times. I feel safe here, and I have hope that I can maintain balance in my life while supporting my son and giving to a community that desperately needs me to be at my best. Seeing other members at the gym grinding out a workout motivates me to be at my best. Connecting with other members and sharing words of encouragement during these challenging, and isolating times is literally a lifesaver!
~Nick D
Thank you, Nick, for sharing your story. Let’s remember to thank all of the health service providers for so graciously serving our communities during this trying time!
We know how tough these lock downs have been on our extended community’s mental and physical health. We also understand how many additional obstacles there have been put in between you and your health as a result. However, we have also witnessed and helped SO MANY of our amazing members overcome these hurdles, stay resilient, and achieve some impressive health PR’s!
We have seen some huge weight loss, performance goals being hit, new routines being made, healthy habits being formed, and so much more. If you have taken a step backwards, you are not alone. In fact, that has been the norm. We also want you to know that now is the time to turn it around and we have all the tools you need to do so. Please do not hesitate to reach out today and get on that road to your best self. Fresh starts are calling!
Coach Chris V