What is the story related to mental health, suicide, and/or resilience that you’d like to share?
When I was only 4 years old, I lost my father to cancer. Following the loss, my grandpa sexually assaulted me until the age of 12 when I came forward with what was happening. About a year and a half later, one of my best friends attempted suicide. After seeing how that affected everyone around us, it really opened my eyes to how important it is to go to therapy regularly and talk about your problems and thoughts. At the age of 22, I was raped by someone I considered a good friend. Ever since the traumas I have been through, I have struggled with mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
What resources have helped you to address this challenge?
- Going to therapy regularly and not just when I’m doing bad.
- Reading books such as
- Explaining to friends and family or those you trust about what is going on in your life and how they can help you
Based on your experience, how can we work to build resilience in ourselves, our loved ones, and in our communities to better face life’s challenges?
Be very open with your past and the battles you are fighting. No one can help you when you stay to yourself and bottle your emotions up.
What is one thing related to mental health, suicide, or resilience that you wish everyone could understand?
Make your mental health a priority. You matter.