We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts. In this episode, I share some of my past experiences in dating. I talk about how I used external validation to boost my self-esteem and the profound impact that medication and therapy had on my mental health journey. Looking back, I realize now how I lacked self-awareness during that time.  Through it all, I'm reminded how my curiosity and questioning  myself are key in my personal growth. So, join me as I dive into these topics with openness, hoping to inspire and connect with each of you on your own journeys. TAKE AWAYS Improved Mental Health: Seeking therapy and trying medication were huge steps for me in addressing my depression. As I started feeling better mentally, I experienced a real boost in my overall well-being. It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I felt more like myself again.Increased Self-Care: Feeling better mentally made me more motivated to take care of myself physically. I found myself paying more attention to my appearance and health, which was something I hadn't prioritized before.Seeking Validation: Placing those single ads in the newspaper was a way for me to seek validation and affirmation from others. After struggling with depression and dealing with the aftermath of my past, receiving positive attention from potential dates was a feeling I never had before.External Validation vs. Internal Healing: While focusing on external appearance and going on dates provided temporary distractions, I realized that it wasn't addressing the deeper emotional wounds from my past. It was a reminder that true healing comes from within, and it's something I continue to work on every day.Lack of Self-Awareness: Despite making progress in my mental health journey, I still felt lost at times. Engaging in external activities, like dating, didn't always provide the introspection and self-discovery I needed. It was a reminder that healing is a journey, and I'm still figuring things out. In order to grow we must reveal our truth and stand in it. I am brave. It doesn't mean I 'm not afraid. I love myself for where I was and where I am. In a world where women of a certain age are often overlooked, April Pruitt is on a mission to flip the narrative and redefine what it means to be middle-aged. Are you wanting a life you’re not living? Do you want to connect with like minded women who are curious about what the future holds? With humor and compassion join April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, as she dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Don't we all want to be loved? To be seen? To be heard? Join April as she tackles various issues to help us live our best emotional life. Get ready to bloom!