Depression – WISE Initiative for Stigma Elimination

Steve’s Story of Seeking Help for Anxiety and Depression

“It’s not a DIY project, mental health and behavioral health. You do need outside help a lot of times.”

Trauma changes us and the way we see and experience the world. Recovery and healing from trauma are real and possible.

The factors that impact our mental health are varied, intertwined and sometimes difficult to distinguish.

So many factors can contribute to and affect our mental health. Family trauma and race are certainly among them.

The path of healing involves understanding that past and looking at the present and future in the face, with determination and grace.

“The more people I tell about it, the more they feel like they have someone to talk to, and that breaks down the stigma.”

“A big part of my recovery has been acceptance and awareness … Being able to be at peace, be at ease, really is freeing.”

“I decided to tell my story because I don’t want other people to go through what I went through…I want to give other people hope.”

“I always thought of myself in this big, huge dark hole that I couldn’t get out of. And I’ve gotten out of it.”

“It feels good when you can let out, If you bottle everything out its going to come out one way or another.”