#YouAreNotAlone #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth

How has mental illness impacted your life?

Mental illness has affected my life in many ways. It can keep me in bed all day. It can give me boosts of energy. It can make me emotionless. It can make me irritable, bring deep sadness and moments of elation. It is challenging and ever-changing. Mental illness has a mind of its own, inside my own mind. 

What does mental health look like for you?

Mental health has been a learning process.  It has been about getting to know myself. It has been acceptance of my illness and treatment regimen as part of my reality, but not allowing it to define me, or what I can accomplish. It has been a team effort of doctors, therapists, family, friends and other peers who live with mental illness. It has been about learning to let others in.

Helping others in their own journeys in living with mental illness has become my passion and has given me purpose in life. I want to be part of setting a new example for future generations to come so that it becomes the norm to be open about mental illness. Together we can live successful and happy lives by providing each other with the support we need.