What made you start a blog?

I started writing blogs at the age of thirteen. My first blog was a fashion and life blog, and it was truly awful. It shall remain buried in the deep depths of blogspot. Ever since then, I wrote multiple blogs in multiple categories. It is something that has always fascinated me. I have even started a mental health blog before, and it failed.

Once I became involved as a mental health advocate, it seemed like a perfect platform to social network, make a difference, and combine multiple passions of mine.

What are your qualifications for a mental health blog?

You can read more about this in my mental health story blog post here: https://ownhero.health.blog/2019/06/21/my-mental-health-story/ But the short version is that there is a history of mental health in my family, and when I moved out of my parent’s house, I had to go through the recovery process alone. It was the most isolating thing I have ever experienced. I was called many things, and even told everyone would be better off if I wasn’t around at all. The worst part was that I believed all of them. I thought I was worthless. I decided in that moment that I didn’t want anyone to feel the way I did. I became a huge mental health advocate and have been able to be interviewed for books, podcasts, and international blogs due to my work.

How do I know if I have a mental illness?

If you suspect that you have a mental illness, it is always a good idea to reach out and get an opinion from a professional. They can point you to other resources, and even prescribe medication if needed. If you don’t want to spend the money just yet, Mental Health America provides unlimited free mental health screenings for a variety of mental health diagnoses. Here is a link to those screenings: https://screening.mentalhealthamerica.net/screening-tools

What is your main goal with your blog?

My main goal is that my blog will open doors for people to not only have a resource and example that they can go to, but more importantly that this will lead to an open platform that everyone can contribute to. I want this to be a safe space where people can talk about their journey and feelings, and have a community of people behind them.

What is your advice for someone who is currently dealing with mental health?

Reach out, take charge, and get the help you deserve. The worst thing I did when I first experienced anxiety and depression, was keep to myself. I kept everything bottled up, and when you do that, it is only a matter of time before you break down. The hardest thing you will ever do in your mental health journey is admit that you need help, and do something about it. This will also be the most important and life changing thing you will do. I know it is scary, and you don’t know how people will react or if they will treat you differently. But I promise, you are not alone. I promise, that those who truly love and care for you, won’t see you as weak or dramatic, they will value you asking for help, and they will be there for you. I promise, that even if you don’t have friends or family that will support you, 25% of the population is diagnosed with a mental illness, and they understand you.