Alberton-based anti-GBV activist and author Lucinda Pietersen has shared a deeply personal account of her ongoing battle with depression and anxiety, revealing that she was recently hospitalised following a severe episode.

Pietersen, who previously inspired local readers with her debut book The Epiphany of My Soul, spoke candidly in an interview with the Alberton Record about what she described as a “war zone inside my own mind.”

She explained that a recent trigger led to several days of intense emotional distress and relentless panic attacks.

According to Pietersen, the experience left her struggling to breathe during panic attacks and battling overwhelming thoughts of self-doubt. “The cries for help were daily. The panic attacks were relentless. At times, I was gasping for air, fighting just to breathe,” she said.

The Alberton resident previously launched her debut book in December 2024, sharing her journey from trauma and abuse to faith and healing. As reported at the time, The Epiphany of My Soul offered readers an honest account of her life and her path toward purpose through her relationship with God.

@lucinda_roux The Silent Battles of Depression and Anxiety Unraveling my Life !!! This is why I was in hospital and what I’m currently faced with. #fyp #depression #truth #pain ♬ original sound – Lucinda_Roux

In her recent interview, Pietersen emphasised that mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. “Depression and anxiety have been my lifelong adversaries. They are not a choice. They are not a lack of faith. They are not a sign of weakness,” said Pietersen.

She also highlighted the often invisible nature of mental health battles, noting that many people suffer silently while continuing to appear strong to those around them. “We learn to smile. To show up. To hold everything together. Meanwhile, inside, we are breaking.”

Despite the severity of the episode, Pietersen said she remains determined to keep fighting. “The battle left marks, but I have been fighting my whole life, and I will continue to fight.”

She added that her faith continues to sustain her, even in moments when the struggle feels overwhelming. “God carries me even when I feel too weak to stand on my own. His presence does not erase the storm, but He walks with me through it.”

Pietersen ended by encouraging others facing similar challenges to remember they are not alone. “This is painfully real. But it is not the end of the story. I am still here. I am still fighting.”