In this episode, I’m joined by Andrea Vawda, a clinical counselor, teacher, author, and podcaster who shares a deeply personal journey of resilience and self-discovery. Following a breakup from a narcissist, Andrea began experiencing mini-strokes misdiagnosed as complex migraines. The strokes were eventually traced back to a rare tumor in the left atrium of the heart, a profound symbol linking to the emotional turmoil of a toxic relationship. While Andrea faced deep depression and contemplated self-harm, she instead embarked on a transformative chapter where she shares the struggle of returning to work, grappling with cognitive challenges and visual impairments resulting from the stroke.  This episode intertwines physical and emotional pain, emphasizing the importance of embracing and feeling one's emotions. It raises thought-provoking questions about the intricate relationship between mental well-being and physical health, challenging conventional narratives about illness and inviting listeners to consider the impact of self-perception and emotional well-being on physical ailments. Andrea's vulnerability and resilience create a powerful narrative, offering a unique perspective on the journey from trauma to recovery. You can hear more from Andrea on her podcast Rock the Bottom Podcast as well as reach out through their instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockthebottompodcast/?hl=en This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #abuserecovery #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #selfhelp #addiction #addictionrecovery #lgbtqsupport #therockbottompodcast #empathy  #narcissist #healing #mindfulwellness #vulnerability #rockbottom #physicalwellbeing #emotionalwellbeing Our Sponsors: * Check out BiOptimizers and use my code JUDGINGMEGHAN for a great deal: https://bioptimizers.com/ * Check out ByHeart and use my code JUDGINGMEGHAN for a great deal: https://byheart.com/ * Check out Homethreads and use my code judgingmeghan for a great deal: www.homethreads.com * Check out Recess and use my code JUDGINGMEGHAN for a great deal: http://www.takearecess.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/judging-meghan/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy