Depression Recovery Stories
While we are a site of stories and storytellers, there is perhaps no bigger storyteller than depression. It lies to those who live with it effortlessly, seducing them into believing that all is lost, everything is hopeless, that there is nothing to look forward to, that life is just an endless swath of bleakness and negativity. It inhibits the ability to see past it, distorting everything with gray-hued lenses that do not allow any light or brightness. Depression tells us that we might as well just give in and give up, but the courageous and vulnerable storytellers at Recovery Diaries reveal depression as the liar that it is through brilliant essays, profound documentary films, and engaging podcast episodes.
Our writers, film subjects, and podcast guests live all over the world, where people who live with depression are sometimes stigmatized and are told that how they feel is their fault, where attitudes towards treatment and medication often make living with depression even worse than it already is, but these creative and intriguing individuals are fighting all the time; for change, for understanding, for their own recovery— for their own lives.
On our site you will find a moving podcast episode featuring a college professor in Utah who begins every single semester revealing to his students his own struggle with depression. You will meet a creatively courageous Black man who interviews his own depression in a remarkable short film. You will read numerous essays by individuals who “seem to have it all” who ask themselves, in their personal essays, “what reason do I have to be depressed”? The answer, of course, is that depression doesn’t need a reason– what it needs is compassion, understanding, vulnerability, and dialogue. Get all of that, and more, here at Recovery Diaries.
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Childhood Trauma and Abandonment: My Long BPD Path to Recovery
From abandonment and shame to diagnosis and healing, Lisa’s story reveals the lifelong impact of trauma—and the courage to stop abandoning herself.
Living Life Fully: The Helping Power of Service Dogs
A film that profiles service dog trainer Casey Buckley and shows the impact that service dogs have on the quality of life of their handlers.
Why Do You Do That: My Journey with OCD
Follow Rosie’s candid personal essay on living with OCD, exploring compulsions, control, perfectionism, and the quiet question that changed everything: “Why do you do that?”
All the Pain We Cannot See; Giovanna Errore’s Invisible Illness | RDID; 218
Writer and translator Giovanna Errore opens up about her fibromyalgia and anxiety.
Dubious of Disclosure: Delving into my Depression
Disclosing depression may seem easy. After all, scarcely a day goes by when this celebrity or that one “comes out” as living with depression, or anxiety (two of the socially “acceptable” mental health diagnoses) but, for many people, talking openly about their mental health challenges, whatever those are, isn’t easy; it can be excruciating, and the very thought of being out in the open as someone living with mental illness can be incredibly, well, anxiety-provoking. Miriam Beigelman doesn’t take coming forward lightly, and she talks about this in her brave essay.
A Fashion Designer with CPTSD Wears Her Recovery Well; Lilah Velez | RDID; 217
Fashion designer Lilah Velez lives with CPTSD and she speaks about her recovery.
Goats and Grieving: Philly Goat Project
Film about Philly Goat Project’s grief walk and grief garden, an activity and space for healing.
A Screenwriter with Bipolar Disorder Rewrites His Recovery; Coli Sylla | RDID; 216
Screenwriter Coli Sylla lives a creative, productive, and full life with bipolar disorder.
From Rehab To Academia: How Learning About The Brain Saved Me From Alcoholism
Ben Roman spent the better part of his twenties drinking, caught up in a cycle of self-loathing, and he did not see a way out. A trip to rehab and a chance encounter with another alcoholic, however, led to a fascination with the brain, an academic career, and a new life partner.
Goats and Grief Short Film Sneak Peek
Preview of upcoming film about Philly Goat Project’s grief walk and grief garden, an activity and space for healing.
My Parents Were in Denial Until It Was Too Late: The Danger of Ignoring Early Warning Signs of Depression
Hope Mwaura tried and tried to express to her parents that something was wrong: she was losing weight, performing worse in school, forgetting about hygiene. But her parents told her to pray more, to stop overthinking, to make the decision to be happy, until it was too late.
Tackling PTSD on the High Seas | Navy Veterans’ Mental Health
Update on U.S Navy Taylor Greiger’s transformation from suicide attempt survivor into suicide prevention awareness activist.
“What is your story?”
Post about our “Recovery Diaries on the Big Screen” screening event, that tells eight stories of resilience and recovery.
Anxiety, OCD, and a Brain That Tries to Protect: Kayla Ackelson | RDID; 213
Kayla Ackelson, a writer, artist, and creator with an OCD brain talks about her recovery.
Teen Mental Health Short Film Awards
Featuring three Teen Mental Health film awardees from the Philadelphia Youth Film Festival, a student-run event showcasing remarkable work.
To Reference After The Disaster: When The Warning Signs of Depression Are Ignored
In a letter to her younger self, Angeline Walsh details how the coming years will be a challenge with OCD, anxiety, and depression. People won’t believe you, you’ll doubt yourself, but you will rise above.
PhillyChinChilly
Short documentary about Phillychinchilly, a chinchilla with a strong social media presence who shares messages of hope and encouragement.
Reflecting on Note(s) to Self
Short film that explores the destructive and/or constructive thoughts that we all have about ourselves and how they frame our personal narrative.
Manning Up Means Getting Help with Suicidal Thoughts: Chris Russell | RDID; 207
An actor, writer, and coach living with bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts talks about manning up.
Suicide Prevention: Embracing the Light
Documentary about the making of EMBRACING THE LIGHT, a mural about suicide prevention and awareness created with community input.
Surviving Suicidality in a Wonderful World: Javier Ortega-Araiza | RDID; 205
A podcast interview with writer and entrepreneur Javier Ortega-Araiza about surviving suicidality.
From “Suck It Up” to Speaking Out: My Way Through Panic Disorder and Depression
A young man finds a way to navigate life with panic and depression in a healthy way.
The Healing Power of Self-Witness after Trauma
Melissa Dagenhart lived through an act of violence; her essay is about recovery after trauma.
Suicide Prevention: Embracing the Light (Short Film Preview)
Preview of short documentary about the making of EMBRACING THE LIGHT, a mural about suicide prevention and awareness created with community input.
The Little Girl Inside of Me: The Importance of Reparenting Your Inner Child
This mental health recovery story focuses on Morrene, whose healing journey led her to understand the inner child that still lives in her and reparent herself.
I AM HANNAH
Short film about Hannah Pittenturf, a college student who navigates anxiety and depression recovery, who strives to support others.
I AM SARA
Portrait of Sara Sciacchitano, artist who challenges her anxiety and depression with art and exercise and humor—and a deep love for Darth Vader.
From Shadows to Light: A Teacher’s Journey Through Depression and Anxiety
A teacher with anxiety and depression leaves teaching to become a mental health advocate.
I AM ASHLEY
Portrait of musician Ashley Murray, a youth peer navigator for NAMI Philadelphia who runs a therapeutic songwriting workshop for young people.
Giving Back: From Peer Group Participant to Certified Peer Support Specialist
Before the pandemic, Marilyn Janson depended on in-person peer support meetings where she could talk to others about her OCD, anxiety, and depression. Now, she leads the meetings herself as a Peer Support Specialist in online support groups.
How a Chance Encounter Led to a 30-Year Therapeutic Journey; in Conversation with Brian Marshall | RDID; 120
A chance encounter led to a lifelong therapeutic bond for Brian Marshall.
Dreams Come True: How Escaping Isolation Relieves Depression Symptoms
Leif Gregersen found his response to his depression was to isolate himself away from the world, which in turn only made his depression grow. The fix he needed, it turned out, was not turning inward, but sharing his life with others.
True til Death, or How Punk Rock Saved Me From Depression and PTSD
Surrounded by drug and alcohol abuse all of his childhood, Dennis Bagwell made the choice to commit to something larger than himself. In his words, it was “a rebellion within a rebellion.” He wasn’t just punk, he was Straight Edge.
A Doctor in Rwanda’s Life with Anxiety | RDID; 117
Florence Mukangenzi is a doctor in Rwanda living and working with anxiety.
Ronald Crawford “The Hip Hop Therapist” Take 2
Film depicts the story of Ronald Crawford, a therapist who uses hip hop lyrics to connect with youth.
The Black Kaleidoscope: How Educating Yourself on the Mechanisms of Depression Can Free You From It
It was depression that kept Michael Sylvester out of school for so long, only for him to find later in life that an education might help free him from his illness.
Go to Your Room if You’re Gonna Cry – Breaking Generational Trauma
Laura Baumeister is breaking generational trauma and doing her best to raise the next healthier generation.
Young Filmmakers Take on Mental Health, Beautifully.
Interview with teenage filmmakers Patrick Jang and Nina Zandvliet about their journeys making films about teen mental health.
Thigh Gaps, Epiphanies, and a Coming-of-Age: My Anorexia Story
Shannon Frost Greenstein writes about the epiphany that changed her life and helped her heal from anorexia.
My Experience with Mental Health in the Jewish Community
After the death of her sister, Linda Baron Katz was left to grieve not only her family, but the entire mental health system, which she believed in, and that ultimately failed her schizophrenic sister.
Learning Boundaries: A Story of Childhood Trauma and Abuse
This mental health recovery story focuses on Jasmin’s childhood trauma and abuse. She eventually shared her story and began to heal.
A College Professor Breaks Mental Health Stigma with Peter Leman | RDID Ep. 106
College professor Peter Leman talks about suicide prevention and mental health in higher education.
A Music Video from David Bronson Thomas that Started in Group Therapy
David Bronson Thomas is a musician who lives with bipolar disorder. His first single, “Dear Me,” stems from an exercise assigned at a group therapy session.
I Now Sing the Songs Life Wants to Hear
This mental health recovery story focuses on Levi’s struggle with suicidality. As he learned to face this part of himself through the love of his family, he found a way to heal.
Bipolar Disorder & Marriage with Gabe Howard | RDID Ep. 101
Mental health advocate Gabe Howard talks about marriage with bipolar disorder as the first guest on our new podcast.
Invisible Wounds: A Veteran’s Mental Health Journey
Former English soldier Dominic Barrett writes about depression, anxiety, and PTSD as a result of a high stress encounter while on duty, and also an unhealthy relationship.
Lifting The Weight Off My Shoulders: How My Personal Trainer Helped Treat My Mental Illness
This mental health recovery story focuses on Jennifer’s ongoing struggle with Bipolar disorder. As she learned to build structure in her life, her diagnosis too became more manageable. Read her story here!
Help a Friend with Active Listening
College students from “CogWell” program at U of P promote active listening to help friends that may be struggling with mental health issues.
It Was Cute Until It Wasn’t Anymore – My OCD, Anxiety, and Depression
Kayla Ackelson lives with OCD, anxiety, and depression and is discovering how to manage those challenges while living a multidimensional life.
Another Anxious-Depressing Thought: Am I Turning into My Mom?
Long-time nurse Donna Barnett confronts her anxious and depressed self and thoughts in this thought-provoking essay.
When Your Trauma is a Landmark
Short film that explores the role that landmarks can play in dealing with trauma, and how they can help us try to live with triggers and trauma.
My Very Own Sunshine: Healing from Trauma with Horses
This mental health recovery story focuses on Morrene, who learned to heal her childhood trauma by riding horses. Through horseback riding, Morrene learned to manage her PTSD and heal.
Music is Sanctuary: Navigating Burnout in the Ivy League with the Power of Deep Listening
Shumaila Hemani once found joy and motivation through her musical studies, but when she began pursuing her Ph.D., all she found was mental burnout. Now she’s on a journey to reclaim her faith and love of music once again.
An Anxious, Depressed Illusion of the Mind
Depressed and anxious, Juliet Spanjaardt learned ways to cope with her debilitating stress and the “hanxiety” created by drugs and alcohol.
Waking Up Bipolar: Finding the Right Diagnosis to Begin Healing
by Listen to Executive Director Gabriel Nathan read this post aloud: Today, I am going to share with you my greatest memory, one I live with every day. As a child, I was one of those...
Loving, Losing, and Remembering a Sister: An Interview with Author Kyleigh Leddy
Interview with Kyleigh Leddy, author of the film essay “When Your Trauma is a Landmark,” which deals with the legacy of her sister who died by suicide.
Ketamine Addiction & My Journey Out of the Hole of Depression
Daniel Gaughan tried to climb out of the hole of depression via an addiction to ketamine, and he almost lost himself.
The Family Relied On Me. And Now They Can’t.
Third of a three-part series on older adult suicide awareness and prevention.
Dopamine, Disability & The Hedonic Treadmill
This mental health recovery story focuses on Cassandra who had a serious accident that left her paralyzed. The accident caused Cassandra to face her life and mental health in a new way. Read more to learn about her journey.
There Was No Answer At Her Front Door
Second of three-part series on older adult suicide awareness and prevention.
The Price of Freedom: Living With Borderline Personality Disorder
This mental health recovery story focuses on Jaclyn who remained misdiagnosed and misunderstood for years. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing, through trauma, addiction and BPD.
Are You Game to Explore a Gamer’s Physical & Mental Health?
Gamer Mollie Evans writes about the unique challenges presented by Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and how it impacts her physical and mental health.
I Wouldn’t be Where I am Today (or Alive) if it Wasn’t for this one Thing I Did
Highly sensitive person Tree Franklyn writes about being born into the trauma of war and living with depression and deep sadness.
No Food. Can’t Think. I Want to Die.
First of three-part series on older adult suicide awareness and prevention.
The Moment Everything Clicked: A Story of Unhealed Childhood Trauma
Makayla Hutchison experienced childhood trauma and abuse that has had long-term effects on her mental health.
On The Ethics of Mental Health Clinicians With Their Own Diagnoses
Does battling with your own mental health diagnosis make you more or less qualified as a clinician? In this essay, Naomi Kunstler explores that question, and shares the price she paid to offer exemplary clinical service while also battling with depression and a history of self-harm.
Trauma and how the Depressed Brain Pushes us into Social Isolation
The post-college search for interpersonal connection left Eleni Stephanides wondering: “Maybe you’re not someone who was meant for relationships.” This, of course, was a falsehood put forth by her trauma and depression.
Case Studies: A Conversation About Older Adult Suicide Teaser
Teaser for a three-part series on older adult suicide awareness and prevention.
My Grande Mis-Comparison Between Mental Episodes and Abuse
Ashley Marie Berry endured trauma in an abusive relationship, on top of pre-existing mental health challenges and emerged hopeful.
Depression, Anxiety and Chronic Mom Guilt: How I Learned my Bipolar Diagnosis
This mental health recovery story focuses on Nadia and her diagnosis process around bipolar. Her mental health plummeted after the birth of her daughter. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
A Creative Mind, Body, and Voice Navigates Bipolar Disorder
Musician, dancer, and artist Casey Calhoun has long struggled with bipolar disorder, and she writes here about her unique recovery process.
From the Vault: “An Interview with My Depression” with Mike Veny
Through the magic of split-screen technology, mental health speaker Mike Veny interviews his depression.
How I Cope with the Challenges of Bipolar Disorder
This mental health recovery story focuses on Dancan, who lives with bipolar. He has been unable to receive medication due to the healthcare system within his country. Read more to learn about his journey with mental health and healing.
Breaking Like Glass: A Story of Complex Trauma and Healing
This mental health recovery story focuses on Kiersten, who lives with C-PTSD. Her journey has been one around managing her patterns of activation and learning mechanisms to help her cope with hypervigilance and trauma response. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
Writing for Life: A Teenage Author’s Journey with Depression and Anxiety
Documentary short about Justin Kemp, a high school student who has authored a short novel informed by his own journey with depression and anxiety.
Cultivating Mental Health Self-Awareness with Generalized Anxiety Disorder Recovery
This mental health recovery story focuses on Yasmina, who lives with generalized anxiety disorder. Her journey has been one around managing her patterns of activation and learning mechanisms to help her cope. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
Challenges in Dealing with and Recovering from Bipolar Disorder
This mental health recovery story focuses on Maria, who lives with bipolar disorder. Her journey has been one around managing her shifting moods and building coping mechanisms. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
How Playing Competitive Tennis Helped Me Heal From Anxiety and Depression
Javier Ortega-Araiza, a former competitive youth tennis player with anxiety and depression, shares how tennis helped enhance his mental health.
How I Use The Joy of Soccer To Fight Depression
As a symptom of his depression, Isaac Nunoofio found it difficult to connect with peers for much of his life. It was Ghana’s World Cup run in 2010 that helped him find the joy and interconnection that a soccer fandom has to offer.
Be Informed, Not Afraid: Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Could Save Your Life
Despite the many decades that have passed since “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, many negative myths still persist about ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) for persistent, suicidal depression; Brian Marshall’s essay aims to bust those myths.
My Body and Me: How Depression, Anxiety, and Eating Influence Each Other
For many of her younger years, Amanda Wolf assumed her relationship with food was normal, since no one around her seemed to intervene. Now, she’s learning how to trust herself and take control of her eating habits.
Overcoming Mental Illness Meant Accepting I’m an Introvert
Amanda Nicholson grew up struggling to understand why it was so hard for her to socialize with her peers. In adulthood, she’s learned a new way to think about her introversion: social energy is a finite resource, not a wellspring.
Nick Emeigh’s NAMI Man Revisited: A Super Hero Story
Mini doc about Nick Emeigh, aka NAMI Man, a colorful and awe-inspiring superhero who roams the world fighting stigma and promoting mental health awareness.
Individuating to Find Peace in my Relationship with My Parents
This mental health recovery story focuses on Aditi, who lives with bipolar disorder. Her journey has been one around finding ways to act for herself and not others. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
The Importance of Drawing Boundaries, or, “I Leave at Nine”
This mental health recovery story focuses on Sheila, who lives with bipolar disorder. Her journey has been one around finding ways to advocate for her needs. Read more to learn about her journey with mental health and healing.
Unpacking Emotional Baggage and Helpful Coping Mechanisms
DEI professional Shaquiea Sykes gets tired carrying around all the emotional baggage of depression; in her essay, she talks about setting it down.
Depression for a “Good Indian Boy”? Impossible
Depression in India is still stigmatized, particularly for a “good Indian boy”, for whom little else is more important than academic and professional achievement.
Don’t Project Your Grief. Live it Intensely. How DBT’s Radical Acceptance Helps Me Through My Grief
To move forward in life after the loss of her mother, Daniela Silva had to radically accept the world as it was—a lesson she learned in dialectical behavioral therapy.
After Addiction and Binging; a Man Becomes Human Again
Addiction and binging were the two vices Robert Jackson battled, in order to save himself and preserve his relationship with his young child.
Tommy Horsey: Modeling Vulnerability
Tommy Horsey started the Instagram account @vulnerbul_ to encourage Black males to talk about their mental health.
Alcoholism and Mental Health: The Tipping Point
Sonia Kahlon used alcohol to cope with her stresses and professional life, but she recognized how it sought to destroy her mental health.
Nicole Nikolich: A Yarn Bomber’s Tale of Hope
Yarn Bomber Nicole Nikolich creates vibrant works of art for the street that are filled with humor and hope and help her battle anxiety and depression.
Managing Suicidality: How I Have Survived all my Hardest Days
This mental health recovery story focuses on Val, who has experienced suicidality and eventually was diagnosed with BPD and Bipolar. Read more to learn about her journey with psychosis and healing.
Crossing Borders to Confront my Bipolar Disorder
This mental health recovery story focuses on Jenny, who has experienced suicidality, when eventually hospitalized she was faced with a new diagnosis. Read more to learn about her journey with psychosis and healing.
The Non-Linear Nature of Eating Disorder Recovery
Erin Jamieson became “good” at counting calories, throwing herself headlong into her eating disorder and then, thankfully, into her eating disorder recovery.
How Throwing Out the Script to My Sleep Routine Helped Cure My Insomnia
This mental health recovery story focuses on Lauren, who was overwhelmed by life and all its challenges fell into patterns of insomnia and anxiety. Read more to learn about her journey.
One of These Things is Not Like the Others: My Surprising OCD Diagnosis and How It’s Helped Me Heal
This mental health recovery story focuses on Jenny, who was overwhelmed by life and teaching the pandemic, began therapy and discovered she has been living with OCD. Read more to learn about her journey.
Bringing Both Feet in – Love & Mental Health
Kavita Sarmah lives with PTSD and believes that therapy and self-work was the key to help her be open to the prospect of love, marriage, and recovery.
James Church: Immortal Dark Manga and Mental Health
A film about IMMORTAL DARK, a Black supernatural martial arts manga that blends two of James Church’s lifetime passions—Japanese manga and mental health.
Suicidal Ideation, “The Darkness”, and Men’s Mental Health
Jamie Loyer experienced suicidal ideation, was hospitalized and medicated and he is now a peer specialist, helping people like him recover.
What Yoga Taught Me about Depression
Laura Onstot was so overwhelmed and exhausted, she barely realized she was depressed; journaling and yoga helped clear vision.
Finding Self-Love When Surrounded By Abusive Voices
After a childhood in Nigeria where no one would take Precious Minaseidiema’s cries seriously, Precious took stock of all her sources of unhappiness, and did away with the ones she could.
Can Hard Work Can Beat Depression?
Starting mainstream schooling later in life, Jonathan Riley had trouble making friends, speaking publicly, and reading at grade level. All of this piled on with depression meant they had a lot of work ahead of them.
Anxiety, Depression, and Two Heavy Whiteboards
While studying astrophysics in Edinburgh, Violet Piper was besieged by depression, anxiety, and thoughts of harming herself.
Is There Life After Diagnosis: Finding Myself after Learning I Have Bipolar
This mental health recovery story focuses on Alexis’s journey with bipolar and how she learned to manage her mental health without making it who she is entirely.
Kathyna Hatla: Painting Clouds Upside Down
Art has helped artist Kathyna Hatla recover from depression that she experienced after an illness that caused her to be paralyzed.
Trauma Under the Bridge | Trauma Recovery Short Film Revisited
Short film that shows the Sharon Wise’s journey from trauma, abuse and addiction to hope, healing and connection.
Gabe Nathan’s Note(s) to Self
Short film that explores the destructive and/or constructive thoughts that we all have about ourselves and how they frame our personal narrative.
Victory Over Suicidal Tendencies: Fostering the Human Connection
This mental health recovery story focuses on Amy’s journey with intergenerational trauma, suicidality and addiction. Amy eventually found support that helped her to heal, read more here!
Following Childhood & Adult Suicide Attempts: A Vow to Get Better
Like so many people who try to take their own lives, Sandra Stevens came from trauma; wishing she had never been born. She took many steps to achieve the desire to stay in this world; this is her story.
Postpartum Depression Healing: Samantha’s Story
A young mother shares her personal journey with postpartum depression.
What Reason Do I Have to be Depressed?
Eleni Stephanides was skeptical that going back on antidepressants would help, but she soon felt the clouds lift, and her vitality return.
Was I the Black Sheep? Discovering, Understanding and Healing my Trauma and CPTSD
This mental health recovery story focuses on Ana’s journey with Complex PTSD, and intergenerational trauma. Ana eventually cut ties with family to begin her healing journey. Read to learn more about how Ana learned to ask for help and recover from trauma.
Perinatal Depression and Postpartum Anxiety: Regina’s Story
A young mother uses her personal journey with perinatal depression and postpartum anxiety.
Looking Down – The Mental Health Impact of Vision Loss
The mental health impact of sudden vision loss can be dramatic, as Christopher Dale explores in this essay.
Jabina’s Story: Postpartum OCD & Major Depressive Disorder
A young mother uses her challenging journey with major depressive disorder and postpartum OCD to help others.
Losing Her Saved Me: How I Healed From Trauma
This mental health recovery story focuses on Amanda’s journey with OCD, Anorexia, Complex PTSD, trauma and grooming. Amanda had to cut off her mother in order to heal. Read to learn more about how Amanda learned to ask for help and recover from trauma.
Postpartum Depression Recovery | Maternal Mental Health: Liz’s Story
A new mother details her how past traumas impacted her postpartum period, and how therapy was key to her recovery from postpartum depression.
Excuse Me While I Obsess: Learning to Manage my Lifelong Struggle with OCD
This mental health recovery story focuses on Manndi’s journey with OCD. Manndi always struggled with symptoms but when she suffered from a miscarriage her OCD tendencies spiraled out of control. Read to learn more about how Manndi learned to ask for help and recover.
Maternal Mental Health: Keli’s Story
A new mother details her recovery journey from postpartum depression, and how medication and therapy were critical to her success.
We’ll Leave The Gaslight on For You
This mental health recovery story focuses on Lindsey’s journey through abuse and childhood trauma, gaslighting, and hospitalizations, where Lindsey learned to trust her intuition and find practices around caring for herself. Read more in this mental health essay!
Holding Space: Stories of Maternal Mental Health
Series presents five women who tell of heartbreaking and challenging journeys with postpartum depression and perinatal anxiety and mood disorders.
PTSD: The Unlikely Disease that Brought my Father and I Together
Carissa Chesanek’s father experienced undiagnosed PTSD from his experience in Vietnam. His daughter never went to war, but was diagnosed with the same illness.
Life Has Become Wonderful: My Life with Schizoaffective Disorder (PART 2 OF 2)
This mental health recovery story focuses on Leif’s journey through hospitals, homelessness, and diagnosis. Leif learned to advocate for himself and now finds ways to do so for others. Read more in this two-part essay!
Meet Monica (Again) – Mental Health & Chosen Family
Monica, a young transwoman, talks about her experience with mental health challenges, homelessness, and finding her chosen family at The Attic Youth Center.
Life Has Become Wonderful: My Life with Schizoaffective Disorder (PART 1 OF 2)
This mental health recovery story focuses on Leif’s journey through hospitals, homelessness, and diagnosis. Leif learned to advocate for himself and now finds ways to do so for others. Read more in this two-part essay!
Anxiety’s Magical Little Pill
Taking “a magic little pill” to help cope with her sometimes debilitating anxiety had serious limitations and, eventually, Maria realized she needed more help.
Decades-long Relationship with Therapist Truly a Gift
Brian Marshall has seen the same therapist for decades, and his relationship with her has been a key element to his recovery from depression.
NAMI Man: A Super Hero with a Super Human Story of Mental Illness Recovery
Mini doc about Nick Emeigh, aka NAMI Man, a colorful and awe-inspiring superhero who roams the world fighting stigma and promoting mental health awareness.
All The Colors Of Me Only Some Will See: Relearning to Love Your Body After a Trauma
Anne Marie Malloy had trouble loving who she saw in the mirror after facing childhood trauma, so she’s reclaimed control over self-identity with piercings, Doc Martens, and a rebellious attitude to match.
Learning to Prioritize Mental Health and Self-Care through a Traumatic Experience
This mental health recovery story focuses on Andrea’s journey after an incident of unwanted touch in a public place. Andrea felt anger, confused, uncertain how to go on. Through mental health care and re-prioritizing her needs, read how Andrea learned to heal from her trauma.
Long-Distance Running and Long-Running Depression: An Enduring Partnership
Eleni Stephanides has learned how to run with depression, instead of running from it.
NAMI Man Film Sneak Peek!
Nick Emeigh is NAMI Man, a colorful and awe-inspiring superhero who roams the world, fighting stigma and promoting mental health awareness.
Misunderstood, Misdiagnosed, Misled: My Story of Illness and Addiction
Christina faced issues with addiction and the law, due to underlying mental issues, eventually with the proper help and diagnosis she learned to tackle these issues.
Mind Games: Depression & Anxiety Gripped My Father; COVID Nearly Took Him Away
Khadija grew up with two hard-working, loving parents, it was later in life that she experienced the impact of her father’s depression.
Depression and Mental Illness: Disease or Condition?
A man wrestles with whether his depression and suicidality are diseases or conditions in this introspective and far-reaching essay.
Melancholy & Cinnamon; A Journey through Mental Hell, and How Poetry Saved my Life
Gabrielle Guillon has come a long way from growing up with depression and abuse as her constant companions; poetry has helped her heal.
A Goodbye Call in a Summer Afternoon: Noticing Suicide Warning Signs May Be the Difference Between Life and Death
When her uncle called trying to give a cryptic goodbye, Thaís Freita noticed suicide warning signs and saved a life.
Hell or High Seas: Suicide Attempt Survivor on the Big Screen
Tackling PTSD on the High Seas presents U.S Navy Taylor Greiger’s transformation from suicide attempt survivor into suicide prevention awareness activist.
Is This What Normal Feels Like? Finding the Right Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Aneta Dabrowska felt the ups and downs of bipolar type II as a teenager, but no one around her knew how to react. When she entered adulthood, Aneta set on a journey to understand her illness on her own terms.
Sanguine: Attempting to Control Everything through Disordered Eating
Kate’s eating disorder started with a desire to control her body and quickly spiraled into something else, learning to reconnect to her body, Kate found her way to healing.
Postnatal Depression, Regular Old Depression, and How Mindfulness Saved Me
Shannon McBride has felt the fog of depression and anxiety nearly her whole life, until an accidental run-in with a pamphlet at the post-office changed her life.
Building a Life After Violence: Leon Harris’ Story
Leon Harris was shot and paralyzed when he was 17 years old. Over the past 14 years he has built a life that includes being husband and father.
Recovering from Depression; a Taboo Illness in Indian Society
Depression in India, for women in particular, is still a taboo topic, with women being blamed and shamed for what they experience, as Aakanksha Shukla writes.
During the Pandemic, a Retired Psychiatrist Finds a New Challenge; His Own Mental Health
Bereft of meaningful activities during the pandemic, a recently retired psychiatrist explores his mental health decline and the difference between acedia and depression.
Coloring Sadness: What We Lose, and Find, in a Psychiatric Hospital
Hospitalized for a major depressive episode, Katie Thomas looked into the eyes of broken people and saw herself.
Where’s Mamma? One Woman’s Struggle with Postpartum Depression
Robin lived the “perfect life” and was excited to welcome her new baby boy, quickly after his birth Robin noticed a shift in how she felt. As her postpartum worsened, Robin did not know what to do and eventually sought help.
After a Suicide Attempt: What a Difference a Dad Makes
After a suicide attempt, Chris Brown, a young man living in England, realized that having a father who could hear him and be with him in that moment, made all the difference.
“Dear Me” A Music Video that Started in Group Therapy
David Thomas is a musician who lives with bipolar disorder. His first single, “Dear Me,” stems from an exercise assigned at a group therapy session.
To Hell and Back, a Man’s Struggle with Suicidal Ideation
While hospitalized under the mental health act, Dominic found himself feeling hopeless and desperate to end his mental pain, read his story to learn how he moved through the pain and found hope again!
Why I Ignored a Bipolar Diagnosis in my 20s… and What I Learned in my 30s
Chris Russell, an actor living with bipolar disorder, writes about medication, realizations, acceptance, and managing his mental health.
Good Thoughts for a Better Mind: How Psychoanalysis Transformed My Life
Years of traditional therapy didn’t do much to quell Daniela Silva’s existential dread and fear of smiling. It took a dose Freud to spur her journey forward.
Revisiting Beloved Photographer Danielle Hark of Broken Light Collective Through Her Lens
When Danielle Hark was experiencing postpartum depression, she turned to photography to aid in her mental health recovery.
I Felt Safer in a Psychiatric Hospital During the Pandemic
The national fatigue and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic felt all too familiar to Jennifer, who is diagnosed with bipolar and has experienced mania.
With Depression, Anxiety, and Lyme Disease; My Dream is Survival
Max Noir lives with anxiety, depression, and chronic lyme disease, but she has not let these conditions diminish her capabilities, limit her travel, or her love of life.
“Dear Me” A Sneak Peek at a Music Video that Started in Group Therapy
David Thomas is a musician who lives with bipolar disorder. His first single, “Dear Me,” stems from an exercise assigned at a group therapy session.
The Gentler Lessons of a Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis
Shortly after her first hospitalization and diagnosis of bipolar, Jocelyn fell into a deep depression. While in the hospital, Jocelyn was guided by the beauty of an orchid, sitting on her window sill. Jocelyn found ways to find beauty day to day to help cope with depression and diagnosis, along with therapy and medication. Read more about her story!
An Extra Mile: Preserving the Literary Legacy of a Brother Who Died by Suicide
After his death by suicide, Raghav Thakran’s family discovered hundreds of poems that he wrote and published them in a book to keep his memory alive.
A Gentle Hand Reaches Out to Those Considering Suicide
Bharti Bansal reaches out a gentle, compassionate hand from India to a friend she has never met, another human being considering suicide, just like she did.
A New Book Returns Us to Our Town
A new book about many different productions of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town features a production by mental health workers.
When Disabled Womanhood Means Shrinking: How Diet Culture Affects the Bodies and Minds of Disabled Women
In middle school, Erica began to notice her weight and developed disordered thinking about her body in an attempt to control it. Through recovery, Erica learned that her need to control her body was in part to make her disability less noticeable to others.
This is Recovery: The Recurrent and Everlasting Journey Through Depression
Josh Forner has been in recovery from depression his entire life, and likely will continue to be. The process is not a straight line, but rather one that curves up and down, and sometimes circles back on itself.
If He Gets It: Teaching My Son How to Handle Depression
Christopher Dale once received mentorship on how to deal with depression from a man who knew the disease well. Now he’s learning to do the same for his son.
The Biggest Storm of My Life: My Precarious Journey with Anxiety and Depression
by Listen to Editor in Chief Gabriel Nathan read this story: I’ve often struggled to stay afloat on the choppy seas of life. Small waves have peaked behind my back, and in a flash,...
Gunshot Survivor Mental Health: Jalil Frazier’s Story
Jalil Frazier was shot trying to prevent a robbery. He is a member of a support group for gunshot violence survivors who speaks about his journey.
A Fractured Journey: Feeling the Throes of Bipolar Disorder Before Diagnosis
Jason Schreurs zig-zags through different moments in his life, finding both clarity and confusion throughout. It all coalesces with one surprise diagnosis.
How Severus Snape Saved My Life
Severus Snape saved my life; a life lived with seemingly endless pain and despair due to anxiety and depression, writes Giovanna Errore from Italy.
Gunshot Survivor Depression & Trauma Recovery: B’s Story (Steven Smith)
Steven Smith is an anti-gun violence advocate and member of a support group for gunshot violence survivors who speaks about his journey.
Even With Depression; I Want a Greedy Life
Living with depression denies you of a lot of things, but Victoria Martinez isn’t about to let her depression take the wheel; she’s in charge.
How I Use the Singing of Hymns and Gospel Songs to Fight Depression
Isaac Nunoofio felt treating his depression was a hopeless cause, and then he found singing.
My Story of PTSD: Fighting the World Against All Odds
Through a difficult childhood, Kate developed PTSD, slowly as Kate began to understand the effects of her father’s absence and mother’s discipline on her mental health she began to heal.
My Bipolar, BPD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobic Life’s Journey; Thus Far
As a child, Brianna attempted to find ways to control the emotions and experiences that she did not feel in control of, how Brianna’s diagnosis and treatment helped her to understand her moods.
Anxiety and Depression; My Two “Best Friends”
Teenager Alex Andrews was well-acquainted with her school’s bathroom floor, where she wrestled with sometimes crippling anxiety and depression.
Mental Health and Gunshot Violence: Charles Horton’s Story
Charles Horton is a disability rights activist and member of a support group for gunshot violence survivors who speaks about his journey.
Winning My Ongoing Battle with Depression and Alcohol Abuse
During childhood, Joao had trouble finding friends he could trust, how Joao moved through experiences of bullying and self-doubt.
Why I Tell My University Students I’m Depressed
Peter Leman, a university professor with depression, discloses to his students to help bust the stigma of mental illness on college campuses.
Watching Mental Illness from the Sideline: A Brother’s Story
Dave Brennan reflects on the difficulties of living with someone with a bipolar diagnosis, as well as how we may look past these difficulties and see the rest of that person.
The Depression That Would Not Go: How Do We Fight Depression When Medicine Doesn’t Do the Trick?
Anuradha Malhotra has keeps finding ways to quell her depressive symptoms, but her cures always seem to run out of gas. Now she’s finding other ways of moving forward.
Is This the Face of a Hero? Life as an ER Doctor in the Time of COVID
Dr. Erica Harris wrestles with the term “hero” as an emergency room physician during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Re-parenting My Inner Child: My Journey of Healing from Childhood Neglect
In childhood, Amanda the constant fear of neglect and need, how Amanda moved through her upbringing and re-parented herself.
44th in the Queue: What Texting the Suicide Lifeline Taught Me about Life, Mental Health, and Toxic Masculinity
When bipolar actor Chris Russell was experiencing suicidal ideation, he called the Lifeline; this is what he learned.
Are We Destined to Repeat the Family Cycle?
Growing up, Natalie struggled with her father’s alcoholism and manipulation, how Natalie worked through her relationship through therapy and writing.
How do you Recover from OCD and an Addiction to Self-Hatred?
Overcoming an addiction to self-hatred has been a life’s work for Harris Pike, in addition to managing anxiety, depression, ocd, and psychosis.
It Gets Better: A Yarn Bomber’s Tale of Hope
Yarn Bomber Nicole Nikolich creates vibrant works of art for the street that are filled with humor and hope and help her battle anxiety and depression.
Dear Mom, I Want to Kill Myself
Dear Mom, I Want to Kill Myself is a heartbreaking and, ultimately, hopeful essay about overcoming suicidal thoughts and helping family members heal and grow.
My Struggle with Anxiety and Depression Has Been My Greatest Gift
Arielle Kremnev experienced an increase anxiety and depression after the birth of her second child.
Intrusive Thoughts & A Failing of Words
Katie Thomas is a caring mother, sister, and wife, but often battles intrusive thoughts of doing horrible things to the ones she loves.
I Want to Live, but I Couldn’t Always Say That
After several suicide attempts, Sarah Sharp now writes and lives with a passionate desire to stay alive.
Before and During COVID-19; My Depression Kept Me Moving and Still
The COVID-19 era has shifted and changed Wendy Hahn’s depression, her relationship with her husband, children, and self.
From Full Ride Scholar to Convicted Felon; A Suicide Attempt Changes Everything
Brittany Lopes’s suicide attempt was intended only to harm herself, but it didn’t turn out that way. Read about her journey of healing, redemption, forgiveness, and recovery.
Not All a Child Needs: Overcoming Suicidality and Depression in Pakistan
Hira Raza shares how culture and parental pressure can impact a child’s mental health, leading to an eating disorder and depression in Pakistan.
Rosy is the New Bleak; How a Psychotic Break Saved My Life
A sudden move across oceans coupled with a psychotic break isn’t usually what saves a person’s life but, for Josie El Biry, it’s just what she needed.
A Boy In Progress: Surviving My Eating Disorder
Eli Parker spent his adolescence hiding his trans-identity from his friends and family, and took control of his life where he could, his diet.
Don’t Mistake a Few Bad Days For a Bad Life with Anxiety
Carol Blake writes her anxieties, joys, depressive thoughts, and words of gratefulness on physical paper to see her thoughts with objective eyes.
Bulimia: Look into Her Greedy Eyes and Destroy Her!
Sonia’s intrusive thoughts about her body controlled her behavior; how Sonia regained control of her life through identifying her disorder and finding help.
Letting Myself Go: An Artist’s Struggle with Depression, Addiction, and Suicidality
For the artist named Mederos, physical and psychological pain of depression is inextricably intertwined.
Gaslighting is Not Just a Movie: Recovering from the Effects of PTSD, Depression and Anxiety
After leaving an abusive relationship, Felicia Darlington’s anxiety and hopelessness felt out of control. Her strong essay details how she found support and learned to be comfortable in motherhood.
Major Depressive Disorder, Social Anxiety, and Hypothyroidism: A Survival Story
After a brain surgery left him with anxiety, weight gain, and depressive symptoms, Jakob
Waldron found out what real friends looked like.
How Becoming a Parent Forced Me to Deal with my Anxiety
Feeling anxious and depressed after the birth of her son, Katharine joined a support group and found help to understand what was going on in her body and her mind. Katharine found ways to understand her anxiety and become the parent she longed to be.
Suppress it, Survive it – How Unresolved Grief can Lead to Depression
Ananya Sahoo, a young woman from India, tried to suppress depression and place the intense grief from losses in a box; but theses boxes always open.
And Then I Got Cancer: My Recovery from Depression Became a Battle for My Life
AnnMarie Otis is a fighter; doing battle with cancer and depression every day of her life, and every moment of every day. Join her fight and cheer her on.
A Voice on Anxiety and Depression in India
Sanjukta Chauhan, a self-described “annoyingly optimistic” student from India, uses writing to tackle her depression.
How do You Live Through Anxiety, Depression, and a Friend’s Death?
Leah Holleran’s mystery illness was as common as common could be: anxiety and depression, but she and her family didn’t know it. Leah eventually solved the mystery of her mental health challenge, but not before struggling with self-harm and the loss of her best friend to an overdose.
An Outsider in My Own Skin; a Transgender Mental Health Story
by Have you ever felt like an outsider in your own skin? As if the body you’re stuck with isn’t really something you own, but something you’ve picked up for the time being; like the shell of a hermit crab. Have you ever...
Wrestling with Depression
In addition to wrestling some of the most noted sumo wrestlers in the world, Mike Wietecha is also well-versed in wrestling depression.
Paramedic Mental Health: Empathy in the Eye of the Storm
Ian Stoddart, a paramedic for 32 years, advocates practicing empathy for positive mental health.
Manic MFA: How My Degree Almost Cost Me My Sanity
Trying to manage bipolar disorder and a MFA program, she was influenced by mania, anxiety dictated the pace of her life, and her marriage was in danger.
First Responder Mental Health: A Paramedic’s Tale
Ashley Neubauer is a paramedic who loves helping people. The stresses of her job, however, affect her mental health, which she must monitor carefully.
Eight Miles Of Agony: Anxiety and Travel
I don’t know if I will ever be free of the panic attacks but I have hope that I will know how to cope. As of right now, I am taking things one day at a time, living my life and sharing my story so that others know that they are not alone.
What Comes After a Brother’s Death? PTSD, Depression, Anxiety; and Hope
After her young brother’s death, Lauren Fraser takes us on her journey of recovery from mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and ptsd in this moving personal essay.
My Fight Against Rape and PTSD in College
I fight for myself and those recovery from rape and PTSD. I still struggle, but I am not a victim. I am a survivor. I am not defined by what happened to me.
Eating Disorder Healing and Changing Our Narratives Around Them
This mental health recovery story focuses on Ziba’s journey through an eating disorder, that often felt invisible. Ziba felt unseen in her disordered habits around eating and misunderstood when she first shared that she made herself sick to doctors. As she learned more about her disease and found help herself, Ziba worked to dismantle stereotypes and bust stigma. Through therapy and group work Ziba was able to understand her disorder and reconnect to herself. Read more!
Hereditary Depression, Unplugged: My Uncle understood my mental illness because he shared it. Then he died.
When Christopher Dale lost his Uncle Steve, he felt he’d lost a guiding compass for navigating his hereditary depression. Now he’s trying to carry on Uncle Steve’s lessons himself.
I Want to Live: Turning a Corner with Suicidal Ideation and Depression
This mental health recovery story focuses on Tina’s journey through a fixation on death, depression and suicidal ideation. Tina’s thoughts and actions felt out of control, guide by anxiety. Suicidal ideation was a constant in her life, how Tina sought help and learned that are her core, she wanted to live. Through therapy and a close encounter with death, Tina discovered her will to live. Read more about Tina’s journey!
I’m Being Listened To: A New Page in a Story of Anxiety and Depression
Bryan Long writes about his struggle with anxiety and depression from the perspective of a young man opening up to a provider for the very first time.
The Good, The Bad, and the Obsessive Compulsive: How We Stereotype Those with Mental Illness
If all you knew about mental illness came from television, you might think everyone with obsessive compulsive disorder was a “crazy clean freak.” Alexandra Ages begs to differ—a person with a mental illness is much more than a television archetype.
Blessed by Dog: How My Emotional Therapy Animal Helps Me Cope with Bipolar
Trying to deal with a bipolar diagnosis, alcohol-abuse, self-harm, and hallucinations is a lot to take on. When Jessica Drake-Thomas met her emotional therapy animal, Mia, the road to recovery became much more clear.
I Suppressed Everything – A Story of Abuse and Bipolar
This mental recovery story focuses on Lisa’s journey of childhood trauma, abuse and eventually her diagnosis of bipolar. After years of physical, sexual and mental abuse, Lisa thought she had found stability, until her mania set in followed by severe depression. Lisa’s life felt like it was spinning out. Her physical, sexual and mental abuse dictated her life, her mania felt out of control, how Lisa came to terms with her diagnosis of bipolar and past trauma and found a way to heal. With time and therapy Lisa found ways to cope. Read more about Lisa’s journey!
Emptying My Head: Bipolar Depression, A Tale of Two People
This mental health recovery story focuses on Erica’s journey through an abusive childhood, a diagnosis of bipolar depression and the feeling of being misunderstood, by other and by herself. Her bipolar depression and anger left Erica confused, when she found therapy she was able to see what was beneath her rage and come through to the other side. Erica realized that her anger masked a deep sadness, as she worked with a counselor she found a way to explore her past and understand her present. Learn more about Erica’s journey!
The Kid’s Alright, or Close Enough; My Asperger’s Diagnosis
Rachael grew up with a feeling that she was different from others. She experienced anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder symptoms and had regular meltdowns. Eventually these things turned into a problem with substance abuse. Her inability to adapt to change and childhood anxiety created a barrier, how Rachael’s diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome in adulthood helped her to understand her past and gain a newfound stability. Once, Rachael could understand what was going in her mind, she was able to take back control of her life. Read more about Rachael’s story!
Battling Depression: Fighting the Legion of Gloom
If you think only a super-human force can successfully battle depression, then you don’t know Shawn Reynolds, comic book aficianado and mental health superhero in his own right.
When Anxiety and Panic Attacks Hit; Hit Back with Therapy
Natalie Rodriguez knew she needed therapy for her anxiety and panic attacks; but she had to fight against shame and stigma to get that help.
Sailing for Life and Surviving PTSD
Hell or High Seas follows veteran Navy rescue swimmer Taylor Greiger and friend Stephen O’Shea on the sailing adventure of a lifetime to prove that Taylor is stronger than his PTSD diagnosis.
When You’re Depressed and Doctors Aren’t Great, What Do You Do?
JoEllen Notte, a sex educator who focuses on mental health, delves into her experiences as a woman who is depressed navigating a health system that often does not know how to respond.
How Can Trauma, Depression, and Panic Help you Hold On and Let Go?
Jenna Kohler’s life has been impacted by her boyfriend’s suicide, the Boston Marathon bombing, and other events that have shaped her exposure to depression and trauma.
Raised by a Broken Woman: Battling Depression and Anxiety Without Parental Support
A never-ending cycle: Broken souls having children only for those children to be shattered souls themselves. Because I know that millions experience this, I want to share my story in order to change a life or even save one.
Dancing Away Depression
it has been a very long time since I have been out dancing. I am much too depressed and the pain is overwhelming; however, there came a meeting of my many minds and the solution was couch dancing. LOL, you say? I would be willing to bet you have never tried it!
A Police Officer’s Tango with PTSD and Complex Trauma – Beneath the Vest with Ed Pila
“Many police departments are good at continually preparing their officers for the daily physical and report battles they face. But, most of these same departments are inadequate in knowledge, and even unaware, of what is going on beneath the vest – in the heart, mind, and soul of the police officer.” – Ed Pila
Horror, Oppression, Perfectionism, Epiphanies; My Story of Comorbid Resilience
I am what clinicians may refer to as “comorbid,” meaning I experience simultaneous disorders at once. With my history of diagnoses of major depressive, post-traumatic stress, panic, generalized anxiety, illness anxiety, body dysmorphic, and social anxiety disorders, I have had an overwhelming journey.
Hope amidst the Hopelessness of Depression
I had always been a sullen, solitary girl, sensitive and moody, prone to uncontrollable emotional outbursts. But the sadness I felt that winter was deeper, the outbursts more frequent, intense, and all-consuming.
My Whirlwind Brain; Living with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety
I’m a thirty-seven-year-old woman who was diagnosed with bipolar, depression and anxiety at the age of twenty-two. As I look back on my life I can remember feeling anxious throughout my childhood. I grew up in a good home with loving parents, but my anxiety persisted.
Physician Mental Health & Suicide
by https://youtu.be/7qBobGOF0fs Doctors are the healers and the helpers. But what happens when it’s the doctors who need the healing and the help? An estimated 300 to 400 doctors die by suicide each year, a rate of 28 to 40...
Reasons Why I Should Die – Coming Back from Teenage Suicidal Ideation
I’m writing now as a happy and fulfilled young adult. But ten years ago, I thought my life was worth ending.
2 Gabes in A Car Sharing Mental Health Stories
In addition to sharing a first name, they also share a passion for busting stigma about mental illness. Mental health advocacy brought them together, but something deeper created a connection.
Seeking Sanity Step by Step
My illness devastated me at age twenty when I was committed to a psychiatric hospital for sixty days and eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Is Mental Illness Your Rabbit, Too? Living with Anxiety and Depression
Not hallucinations, but rather some of the smaller and fuzzier denizens native to Cambridge, Massachusetts. There is no metaphor more fitting for the person I was back then: twitchy, easily startled, a propensity to run scared from others. I had lost all the avenues I’d had to hide from depression and anxiety, and they closed in like a pair of gangsters in an alleyway.
Tackling PTSD: Hell or High Seas
Taylor Grieger was diagnosed with complex PTSD several months after his release from the Navy with little-to-no guidance on how to cope with his condition.
A Suicide Attempt Spurs a New Life of Advocacy
One night, my mental state deteriorated to the point where I tried to end my life through a suicde attempt. It was impulsive and rash.
My Five Stages of Depression
The Five Stages of Mourning is a perfect template for my own Five Stages of Depression: Anger, Anxiety/Exhaustion, Depression, Treatment, and Recovery.
Now What?: Suicidality and Planning for an Uncertain Present
When I exhibited symptoms of C-PTSD and OCD, I was afraid and lost. I survived multiple major depressive episodes, all of them including suicidality.
Call Out Each Cloud by its Silver Lining: Life with Depression & Anxiety in India
Whenever I’d gone through stages of major depression or anxiety as a young teenager, all I’d hear was that I was stupid, lazy, and unambitious. Imagine being judged by your symptoms and not by your illness.
You Just Can’t Talk to Crazy People: Bipolar, Depressed, Recovering
My psychiatrist became so annoyed with my theological nonsense that he abruptly stalked out of one session, exclaiming, “You just can’t talk to crazy people.” I sent him a note later, in which I informed him that I could talk to crazy people, so that was his problem, not mine.
How Audre Lorde’s Cancer Journals Helped Me Cope with my Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
I am determined to love and live intensely and fearlessly because, as Audre Lorde said, betraying myself into silence will not protect me.
Marriage and Mental Illness: The Ups and Downs
When you think of married life, what comes to mind? Are you in complete bliss or just plain miserable? Maybe you’re floating somewhere in between.
Treatment Resistant Depression: My Experience with Countless Interventions
I endured this routine for so long: try a new medication to alleviate my treatment resistant depression and either feel horrible or feel absolutely nothing.
What it Feels Like to be Passively Suicidal and Not Want to Die
The passive suicidal thoughts are still there, but I have started to recognize that they are only powerful if I give them the power.
Repairing a Beautiful Life Damaged by Depression
When I finally saw a psychiatrist, she was surprised that I was still alive, having been afflicted with depression for so long without medical treatment.
Acceptance: How One Friend Helped Me Get Help for Depression and Anxiety on my Own Terms
As I battle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, it has always been far easier for me to support others with mental health struggles than to admit my own.
Laces Out: Chokeslammed by Suicidal Thoughts & Depression
With depression, I had suicidal thoughts. Not because I wanted to kill myself, but because the idea of being “done” felt like serenity.
Worth a Thousand Words: Mental Health in Pictures
These images of mental in pictures are not what the public wants people to show. They are reality. They are dirty, messy, uninhibited, and true.
Making Peace with Persistent Depressive Disorder
Persistent depressive disorder (formerly known as dysthymic disorder or dysthymia) is just what it sounds like: depression that persists.
My Social (Anxiety) Life Online
Social anxiety still exists online. You’re still putting yourself out there and you feel vulnerable opening up, not knowing what response you’ll get.
More Mental Health Accounts to Follow on Instagram
This installment of our mental health resources column highlights Instagram mental health from authors who have appeared on OC87 Recovery Diaries.
I’m Just Tired: When You Dismiss Depression
“I can’t explain where I’ve been, and though everyone wants to understand, it doesn’t mean they comprehend. They can’t grasp where I am.” – Kathryn Rose Wood
From Depressed and Suicidal to a New Outlook
I went from unhappy to miserable to struggling to overwhelmed to depressed and suicidal. First I was diagnosed with post-natal depression, followed by treatment-resistant clinical depression. Then came the biggest clanger of all, diagnosis number three: borderline personality disorder.
How Bipolar Support Groups Helped Change My Life
It took months of internal debate before I worked up the courage and the desire to at least give the depression and bipolar support groups a shot.
Painting My Roses Red – Navigating Recovery
Groggy. Always groggy. Part bored, part feeling down. Seems I always have habits I either need to break or start—when I can get around to it. Maybe tomorrow, after my 8:30am nap.
5 Depression Twitter Accounts for Community, Resources, and Encouragement
This installment of our mental health resources column focuses on depression Twitter accounts including DBSA, Sad Girls Club, Heads Up Guys, Natasha Tracy, and Depression Notes.
Bipolar Disorder and PTSD – How I Accepted My Mental Illness Before it had a Name
Before I had a name for my mental illness — bipolar disorder and ptsd — this is what it felt like: playing diagnosis dress-up, trying on labels, seeing how they fit, and feeling lost — like there was nothing left in my closet to wear.
Kevin Hines Teaches Us That Being Well is an Art in Suicide: The Ripple Effect
In Suicide: The Ripple Effect, Kevin Hines recounts the tale of his suicide attempt when he was nineteen years old, and then embarks on a journey to offer hope to others who may be struggling, and to hear stories from mental health advocates like him.
Glowing on the Outside; Crumbling Inside – Depression, Anxiety and Motherhood
I failed the postpartum screening given, as protocol, by the hospital, and yet they sent me home.
Get Used to Life Without Me: A Dispassionate Road to Suicide with Depression
I crossed seamlessly from ambivalence and malaise into an area I’d never been before: actively planning suicide.
After I Destroyed Myself: Fast and Furious with Bipolar Disorder and Addiction
I’m not an expert on mental health, addiction, or suicide. I’m a survivor.
Walking the Border: The Delicate Dance of OCD and Borderline
Yes, I have been diagnosed with depression, OCD and borderline personality disorder. Yet, I am still a good person.
Mental Health Silent Retreats Have Changed My Recovery Story
Mental health silent retreats have been an important tool in my recovery. They have allowed me to forgive, heal, and gain clarity.
The Homeless Gospel Choir, Punk Rock, and My Mental Health Journey
I started writing songs about my feelings and sharing them with audiences throughout the country as a touring musician, under the name The Homeless Gospel Choir.
Episode 21 – A Talk with Psych Central Podcast Host, Gabe Howard
Podcast interview with PsychCentral.com podcast host, Gabe Howard, who suffers from bipolar disorder, but is in recovery.
Challenges of Writing a Bipolar Book When You Have Bipolar
I have bipolar disorder and I’ve written a book about my experience living with bipolar disorder and depression.
With Depression, Love Won’t Save Me
“I wrote the song “Becoming” about giving my mental health adequate attention and care, even while in a relationship.” — Emily Yacina
Episode 19 – Rudy Caseres: Champion for Mental Health
Rudy Caseres is a mental health advocate who lives with bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
“Depression Man” Wages War on Mental Illness through Laughter
As bad as my depression has been – and I’ve experienced more than 40 years of it – I have somehow, luckily, always found the magic of laughter within reach.
Faith and Academia Unmask a Psychotic, Bipolar Depression
Depression tricks you into thinking that you are completely alone when, in fact, you are the opposite. No one is truly alone.
Episode 17– Bipolar Disorder, Family, and Love
The memoir “Gorilla and the Bird” discusses how bipolar disorder affects work, family, and relationships. Podcast interview with Zack and his mom, Cindy.
Becoming Your Own Best Friend for Your Mental Health
When it comes to mental health, how we can become our own best friend in 2018? Here’s what we came up with. Happy New Year to you, friend.
Episode 16 – Comedian and TV Personality Paul Gilmartin on Podcasting, PTSD, and Coping with Trauma
Host of The Mental Illness Happy Hour, Paul Gilmartin has come a long way since doing stand-up comedy and hosting the TV show, Dinner and a Movie.
Anxiety, Depression, and Motherhood Mental Health
As I lie in bed, my thoughts spiral saying, “You’re a horrible mother. You’re a horrible writer. You’re a horrible person.”
5 Standout Depression-Related Facebook Pages
Depression Facebook pages that share genuinely different content while still all speaking to what it can be like to live with depression.
How the Westminster Dog Show Helped Me Let Go of My Anxiety and Celebrate (And You Can Too)
“What could go wrong for someone who has panic attacks in large crowds at an event regularly attended by 20,000 people?” — Sheila Hageman
Episode 14 – “The Hunting Ground”: Recovering from Sexual Assault – an Interview with Documentary Film Subject, Kamilah Willingham
Interview with Kamilah Willingham, a subject of the documentary film, “The Hunting Ground.”
Depression Does Not Discriminate: A Mental Health Essay from Ireland
Depression tricks you into thinking that you are completely alone when, in fact, you are the opposite. No one is truly alone.
Living with and Managing Bipolar Disorder
Managing bipolar disorder behavior involves more than medications. Changes in mood are affected by factors in our environment.
The Big Scare: My Anxiety Disorder Story
A therapist writes with humor and passion about her struggles with panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder, and an eating disorder.
Episode 12 – From Nigeria to the U.S. — A Journey with Anxiety and Depression
Adesola Ogunleye, a Nigerian American immigrant who lives with depression and anxiety, is interviewed on this episode of OC87 Recovery Diaries on the Radio.
Episode 11 – An Interview with Gabriel Nathan: Editor in Chief
“When you make a choice to put yourself out there, you’re empowering yourself — and you’re empowering others.” – Gabriel Nathan
The Push and Pull of Depression
Still, I resisted. For several years, I didn’t want to accept that the push and pull of depression was a permanent part of me.
Sex and Depression: A Sex Educator Explores Her Own Diagnosis
I focus my work on helping folks navigate sex and depression on their own and with their partners so that everyone feels supported and safe.
Book Review: An Urgent, Bold Voice Emerges from the “Manic Kingdom”
Dr. Erin K. Stair’s new book, Manic Kingdom, is a “harrowing, breathless, and beautiful journey” that will leave you spellbound.
The Blended Shades of Depression
This disassociated state, where you plan your death as though you were planning Tuesday night’s dinner, is one of the many shades of depression.
Start Climbing: When Major Depression Takes Hold
I should probably explain a few things. I’m not crazy. I suffer from major depression, as well as generalized anxiety disorder. I’m basically a shut-in.
A Psychologist Helps You Retrain Your Brain
Laura Farrell reviews Seth Gillihan’s book, Retrain Your Brain: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in 7 Weeks, an interactive guide to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Wrestling with Obsessive Thoughts About Everyday Encounters
how an everyday encounter with a stranger on the street can morph into a paralyzing prison-like mental trap of repetitive, obsessive thoughts.
5 Depression TED Talks That Entertain, Educate, and Empower
These five depression TED Talks share our agenda to inspire, build bridges, and bring light to the shadow that enshrouds mental health challenges.
Don’t. TOUCH. ANYTHING! A Story of Anxiety, Obsession, and the Museum Police
I put a lot of thought into how to make the web-series Katie and Shaun responsibly. The portrayal of anxiety and depression is true to my experience.
Dancing Through Mental Illness with an Eating Disorder
My eating disorder lied, denying any inquiry that there was something wrong. After residential treatment I did outpatient with a dance movement therapist.
Episode 3 – An Interview with Documentary Filmmaker Glenn Holsten
Glenn Holsten discusses the making of his mental health documentary film, Hollywood Beauty Salon.
When We Were Small: An Intense Struggle with Depression
I will always struggle with depression, but finally I feel I am done clearing the land and am ready to plant the seeds that will become new growth.
22 Mental Health Podcasts
In celebration of our new podcast, we’ve rounded up 22 mental health podcasts that are doing their part to #buststigma around mental illness.
Episode 2 – Art and Mental Health: Can They Co-Exist, or Must They Compete?
Bud and Laura interview Philadelphia artists Abby Squire and Rosie Carlson about how art and mental health affect one another.
A Bipolar Diagnosis: A Life’s Mission Revealed
After my bipolar diagnosis I got married, got divorced, lost my job due to the stigma of mental illness, and attend two assisted outpatient hospital programs.
A Bipolar Diagnosis: Suicide Watch
“Honey, I will be checking on you every fifteen minutes.” I stared at her, puzzled, until she leveled me with a four-word gut punch: “You’re on suicide watch.”