My Stroke Journey: Why Mental Health Matters More Than Ever

Marco Giovannoli
2 min readMay 4, 2024

As a stroke survivor, recovery’s a mental and emotional journey too.

The world talks about stroke recovery in terms of regaining physical abilities. But as a survivor myself, I know it’s so much more. It’s a mental and emotional marathon, filled with frustration, fear, and days where doubt creeps in.

But what truly helped me push through those challenging moments? Focusing on my mental well-being.

Therapy provided a safe space to process the emotional rollercoaster and develop coping mechanisms. Support groups connected me with others who understood my struggles, fostering a sense of belonging. And for those quiet moments of inner turmoil, mindfulness techniques became my refuge.

This #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth, I want to remind everyone, especially fellow stroke survivors, that it’s okay not to be okay. There are days when the road to recovery feels overwhelming. But you don’t have to walk it alone. There are resources available, and prioritizing your mental health is just as crucial as physical therapy.

Finding Your Center:

One technique that made a huge difference for me was meditation. It helped quiet racing thoughts and cultivate a sense of calm. Here’s the basic practice: find a quiet space, sit comfortably…

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Marco Giovannoli

Aeronautical Engineer, Author, Chef, World Traveller. I conquered stroke… I am a Miracle in the Desert.