Welcome to the first ever entry on Hope in a Hopeless World Blog Page! Just a few weeks ago, my husband and I visited a winery with some close friends. As we sat on the wooden bar stools near the owner, I noticed a young couple walk in and sit down next to us. Within minutes, the young man strikes up a conversation with the owner of the small establishment by saying, “How long have you had Diabetes?” The question seemed out of no where, at least for me someone who does not live with diabetes. I have yet to figure out what clued him in. The owner without hesitation responded to the question by offering up detailed information about her diagnosis. For the next 30 minutes they spoke of their struggles with the illness, treatment options, new studies that show promise for those with the condition, effects on daily life, and possible causes. It was an immediate connection with a complete stranger. There was no shame or fear of judgement over talking about their shared physical condition. On the way home, I thought about my own current and past diagnoses: PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorder, Vicarious Trauma. Then I started to think about my own circle of family, friends, and acquaintances and began to count all those that are aware of my diagnoses. I could only come up with a handful of people that were aware of all 5 diagnoses, and even fewer who know what mental illness looks like for me. What makes physical illness so much easier to talk about then mental illness? Often mental illness can feel isolating. It can feel like you alone are the only one that feels lost in a world without hope. According to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S.—43.8 million, or 18.5%—experiences mental illness in a given year.” That’s just in one given year! Yet, we don’t talk about mental illness like we do physical illness. Why is that? Why can’t we discuss the challenges that come with mental illness, up coming research, potential causes, and treatment options, without feeling judged? Then I thought, maybe we can! Maybe it starts with us, those that are living with a mental illness or know someone that is. Maybe it starts with transparency, vulnerability. Bravery to say I have a mental illness, this is what it looks like, and this is what works for me.My hope through this blog is to share my story, my life, and the lessons I have learned along the way. In doing so, I hope that it provides connection and conversation for those that feel like they are alone. If you or someone you know lives with mental illness, I would love to hear from you! In the comments below, share your story of resilience and where you find hope in a world that can feel hopeless. We do not have a spirit of fear, but of Power, Love, and Self-Control. – 2 Timothy 1:7