We all have a story. While many famous, and even some less than famous, people have written autobiographies, we all have had a life with an interesting, challenging, heart-breaking, achieving or possibly shattering episode. Some share their stories with others, verbally or in print. Some hide behind their stories afraid others will cast pity on them or see a perceived weakness. It is to those who I see as strong because they carry on in-spite of what life has placed before them.
Specifically those with mental illness have been first burdened with an illness of no fault of their own and second by so often hiding the illness so others don’t doubly burden them with pity or despise them for their difference. Well guess what….these are the strong. They endure and carry on! And furthermore, we all, EVERYONE, has a chapter in their life they wish they could rewrite.
So hear goes, I’m going to share something that few know about me. While I consider myself a successful Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I have a family with mental health illnesses. My grandfather suffered years of depression. My uncle (on the other side of the family), committed suicide. My son attempted suicide. I take anxiety medication. What I know for a fact…My son is alive, struggles daily, but carries on in spite of being bi-polar. I am strong enough that few will ever see anything but a professional, self composed, determined woman.
I will speak for those who don’t or can’t speak their voice. I will stand strong for those in need. As mental health month comes to a close, remember that we all have a story and don’t judge others because you have not lived in their shoes.
Whether you share your story or not along your path, may you be proud of your strength to endure.