From Panic to Purpose: The Healing Journey Behind Self-Care Shirts

Rock Bottom Was My Starting Point

I started my healing journey at 18, after surviving an attempted sexual assault that left me spiraling into panic disorder, depression, and anxiety. That trauma was the breaking point—but the truth is, I had already endured nearly two decades of childhood abuse and emotional neglect. I was at rock bottom. My parents didn’t show up for me. I had no support, and I was barely holding on.

That’s when I found therapy.

A Decade of Therapy—and Real Healing

The path wasn’t linear. Some therapists helped more than others. But everything shifted when, nearly four years ago, I met my current therapist, Dr. Scott. Through years of work—especially EMDR therapy—I finally began to heal the deepest wounds of my childhood. I started to understand that healing is not about perfection; it’s about progress. And it was that understanding that set me free.

About a year and a half ago, I made the life-changing decision to go no contact with my parents. After decades of begging them to be the parents I needed, I realized my peace was more important than their approval. That space gave me room to reconnect with myself and pour my energy into something I never expected to become so meaningful: my art.

A Shirt That Started It All

It started with small illustrations—cute, affirming reminders like “Rest is Productive” and “You Are Enough”—that I shared with friends and online. One day, I made the design “Make Your Therapist Proud,” and something clicked. I put it on a t-shirt, wore it to my next session, and felt something I hadn’t in a long time: proud of how far I’d come. That feeling? I wanted others to have it, too.

So I opened an Etsy store and uploaded a few designs. The response was overwhelming. People connected with the message—and with the story. I realized this could be more than a side project. It could be a movement. A mission. A soft place to land for others like me navigating healing, mental health, and growth.

Losing My Job… and Finding My Why

Then, on April 1st, 2025, I logged into work and learned my federal position as a graphic designer had been terminated. In an instant, the life I’d built came crashing down. No family safety net. No siblings to turn to. No backup plan. I had to choose: panic or purpose.

So I bet on myself.

I registered my business. I built this website. I poured everything I had into turning Self-Care Shirts into a sanctuary for anyone who’s ever felt broken, burned out, or like they didn’t belong. Every wellness t-shirt, every mental health sweatshirt, every therapy gift—is a reflection of the affirmations that helped me survive. Wearing designs like “Be Kind to Your Mind” or “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay” reminded me that healing takes time—and that I am not alone.

I hope they can do the same for you.

This Brand Is Built on Healing

This isn’t just a store. It’s a love letter to my past self—and to yours, too. 10% of all profits from Self-Care Shirts go directly to the 988 Crisis Lifeline and The Trevor Project, because no one should struggle alone.

So whether you're looking for the perfect self care gift, an affirmation shirt to brighten your day, or a comfy "you are enough" sweatshirt to remind you of your worth—know this: you are welcome here. And you are more than enough.

Let’s heal together, one shirt at a time. 💛