Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 7, 2024 12:40 pm GMT
Lauren Goodger’s Journey: Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing Change
Everyone faces challenges in life, but only a few are as brave as Lauren Goodger when it comes to sharing their darkest moments. The reality TV star has become a household name, not only through her time on “The Only Way is Essex” (TOWIE) but also due to her candid discussions about trauma, anxiety, and personal transformation. Recently, Lauren opened up about the significant impacts of her past traumas, her struggles with anxiety, and her decision to undergo surgery to remove her breast implants. If you’re curious about how someone can face such overwhelming challenges and emerge stronger, read on as we delve into Lauren’s inspiring journey.
The Heartbreaking Loss of a Child
Lauren’s life took a tragic turn in July 2021 with the birth of her second daughter, Lorena, who tragically passed away shortly after her delivery. This loss was compounded by the recent passing of her ex-boyfriend, Jake McLean, who died in a car crash just a week before her daughter’s birth. These dual tragedies left Lauren grappling with profound grief that would inevitably lead to severe anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety after Trauma
In her heartfelt posts on social media, Lauren revealed the extent of her struggle with anxiety, stating, “I have suffered tremendous anxiety due to the things I’ve been through.” This anxiety has had a significant impact on her daily life, restricting her ability to travel, undergo treatments, or even engage in routine activities like dyeing her hair. Lauren candidly expressed that she now hates lifts and trains and sometimes finds herself unable to drive on motorways.
For many, anxiety may feel like an unendurable weight that affects every aspect of life. It can often feel like being caught in a storm, where the rain never stops and the winds never die down. Lauren’s experience reinforces how trauma can deeply transform individuals, illustrating that healing is a process that takes time and care.
A Shift Towards Recovery
Making Healthier Choices
Through her adversity, Lauren has taken steps to prioritize her mental and physical health, which includes becoming caffeine and alcohol-free. These changes are often seen as beneficial by many individuals seeking to manage anxiety and cultivate a healthier lifestyle. She emphasized that her mental health challenges were so significant that even minor outings were daunting. The reality of her daily anxiety paints a poignant picture that many can relate to, illustrating that it’s okay to struggle and seek help after life-altering events.
Deciding on Surgery
Amid her battle with anxiety, Lauren made another impactful decision: to remove her breast implants. She shared her fear around undergoing this surgery, stating, “I do not want them…I just need to get this done and I’m terrified.” This profound decision signals a desire for authenticity and wellness, suggesting that her confidence is tied more closely to her physical health and mental state than to societal standards of beauty.
Reflections on Past Surgeries
A Painful Experience in Turkey
Lauren has previously shared her experience with a controversial £5k “bum lift” performed in Turkey. In hindsight, she described the rushed, unconsulted nature of the process and recognized it as perhaps the most traumatic event she has endured. “There were just six days between agreeing to do it and being on that operating table,” she recounted, emphasizing the lack of care and rules in place during that time. Such experiences highlight the importance of sufficient preparation and discussion with healthcare professionals, which can make all the difference in surgical outcomes and mental preparedness.
A Joyful Return to TOWIE
After some time away, Lauren made a return to the spotlight and TOWIE, expressing that although she had been living in what she described as a “mum bubble,” the experience felt like riding a bike— “you don’t forget what you’re doing.” Her return is reminiscent of a phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing resilience and transformation while emphasizing the role of personal growth in overall well-being.
Finding Herself Again
While reflecting on her comeback, Lauren shared feelings of both nostalgia and nervousness, indicating that time away from the scene had given her a new perspective on life and her role within it. Like many parents, she found her priorities had shifted towards her daughter, but now she’s rediscovering a sense of self. This evolution indicates that taking time for oneself—whether through embracing motherhood or addressing mental health—is integral to personal development.
What We Can Learn from Lauren’s Story
Lauren Goodger’s journey is an open book, filled with lessons about resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of self-care. Her experiences encourage us to recognize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to strength and courage. As many people navigate their challenges, it is important to remember:
- It’s okay to ask for help: Sharing our stories can ease the burden and encourage others to seek support.
- Prioritize mental health: Making conscious choices for your well-being can lead to healthier lifestyles.
- Authenticity is key: Embracing who we are—flaws and all—can lead to greater self-acceptance and peace.
FAQs about Anxiety and Surgery
What causes anxiety after a traumatic event?
Anxiety after trauma can stem from feelings of helplessness and fear that arise from the traumatic experience. Triggering memories or situations can elicit physical and emotional responses that contribute to ongoing anxiety. Seeking professional help can mitigate these anxiety levels.
Is it normal to feel afraid before surgery?
Yes, feeling fear or anxiety before surgery is a common experience. It can be helpful to communicate these feelings with your healthcare team, who can provide reassurance and support.
How can lifestyle changes affect anxiety?
Positive lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, can significantly impact anxiety levels. These changes may improve overall physical health and emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Lauren Goodger’s story is not just about sadness; it’s also about strength and growth. She bravely talks about her struggles with anxiety and how she is healing. Many people can relate to her experiences. Lauren shows us that it’s important to take care of our mental health, accept changes, and make smart choices about our bodies. As we each work on our own journeys, let’s remember the lessons Lauren has shared and try to see our own strength when we face tough times.
