As the prevalence of mental health issues increases and affects an ever larger number of our friends and family, it becomes essential that we create spaces for folks to talk about how they overcame or persisted despite mental health challenges. Here, we’ve tried to create a safe space for people to come together and discuss their stories, experiences, triumphs and failures with managing their mental health issues.
Javone Gratton-jackson
I’ve used poetry as a way to vent and give my thoughts and emotions a chance to be expressed without being judged by actual people who may or may not have experienced the same things I experienced. Surviving is another way of accepting death, and I tend to balance my life in two underworlds. This means I appreciate life while having respect for this realm. Read more>>
Semaj Wright
I wake up and find a reason to live everyday no matter how small, it’s the best and most I can do. Read more>>
Stephanie Kaiser
Everyone’s mental health journey is unique, and no matter how things look on the outside, you never truly know what someone’s feeling inside. For me, I’ve always been intentional about surrounding myself with people who genuinely support me and never make me feel ashamed of what I’m going through. Compassion for both myself and others has been key. At the end of the day, we’re all in charge of our own lives, and I want the freedom to create new opportunities–new relationships and spaces where I can be myself and feel everything fully. I’m committed to growing and processing at my own pace because life is long, and I want to be around for all of it. Read more>>
Esteban Ujueta
My mental health is important to me and I work daily towards maintaining a positive mindset. I’ve been dealing with mental health issues all my life, but I’ve been fortunate to have a good support system in place to help me navigate life’s ups and downs. My wife’s support and understanding is at the top of the list of the ways I am able to persist despite challenges I face from mental health issues. She is my anchor and keeps me grounded. Additionally, music has always been a constant in my life as a way for me to cope and manage my mental health. My passion for music is what lead me to pursue a career in this field because it’s always been my outlet for expression – it’s a space where I can fully let go all the things that I may be dealing with. It’s therapy for me. Read more>>
Brody Coates
I have struggled with chronic depression, body image issues, and fear of being abandoned my whole life. These challenges have affected every choice I’ve made. Even now, I have to work hard to understand my experiences. I know I will carry some of these issues with me forever. I will keep trying to lessen their impact, but I must learn to manage them because they will always be there. Read more>>
Tasha Sookochoff
I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety since my late teens, resulting in multiple diagnoses, years of therapy, hospitalizations, and endless prescriptions. Over the last 20 years, I’ve finally accepted that my mental illness will never go away, and I will always need to be vigilant about checking my emotions and using cognitive behavioral methods to work through my daily anxiety and depression.
Outwardly, I’m motivated by the important relationships in my life and my incredible employees and clients. But if I’m being totally honest (and vulnerable) it’s the fear of failure and disappointing anyone that truly pulls me through my worst moments. While my job is definitely stressful, it’s such a privilege to own my own business, and I don’t take my personal and professional autonomy for granted. Read more>>
Tom Smith
I had a nervous breakdown, had to stop working, was put on disability, and then finally, my contract was not renewed. I then tried to commit suicide. I stayed pretty much isolated at home. Then, to give myself something to do, I realized I could try to start painting again after 40 some years. My therapist recommended I put myself “out there” so somehow I found an art group to join. To my amazement I started to become successful. Though I still haven’t completely conquered “imposter syndrome” I’m now a gallery represented, professional, award winning artist. I do still have that little voice that tells me I’m not good, but it’s slowly receding! Read more>>
Anna Matilda Gkioxi
thank you for getting in touch with me. My name is Anna Matilda and I am living in Germany at the moment.I passed through many difficult times, I found a way to survive and escape most of the problems in my life.
Having a tough childhood and being a child of divorced parents I found love in the books and a way to survive. The only thing that helped me was my mindset. I had mental health issues or let’s call them insecurities Read more>>
Alexis Hunter
Overcoming mental health challenges, particularly within African American and other minority communities, demands resilience and awareness. Traditionally, mental health issues have been stigmatized, often viewed as a sign of weakness or a personal failing. This stigma can deter individuals from seeking help, perpetuating cycles of suffering . During the COVID-19 pandemic, I experienced a profound personal loss when a close friend took their own life. This tragic event was a wake-up call, highlighting the critical need for open conversations about mental health. It made me realize how important it is to prioritize not just my own well-being, but also to support others who may be struggling silently. Read more>>
