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From Professional Athlete to Mental Health Advocate
The fear of judgment, rejection, and potential negative repercussions was overwhelming. However, I soon realized that sharing my story not only helped me heal, but it also helped others who were going through similar challenges. -
Surviving the Bed Shortage in Mental Health Treatment Facilities: A Teenager’s Experience
This is an unprecedented crisis in mental health facilities — and it needs to be addressed. -
Changing the Conversation about Eating Disorders
Everyone deserves compassion and support as they live with and recover from eating disorders. -
Accepting My Sexuality in Eating Disorder Recovery
The pride I feel about my identity is inextricably linked to the pride I feel about being in recovery from an eating disorder. -
Is This Recovery?
"I did not win this time, but perhaps I will tomorrow. I may not be recovered right now. I may not be in a normal state of mind, but I will be again." -
Overcoming Barriers to Recovery
"When we band together as a set of people with lived experiences and allies within the community, we can change public opinion on substance use disorders and recovery. Together, we can move from shame to celebration and become a powerful, positive force for lasting recovery." -
Showing Strength in the Face of Mental Illness
"After three decades of battling my brain, I thought it was time for me to do something to help people understand. That’s why I decided last year to use my annual PlanksGiving event to support mental health advocacy and NAMI." -
Substance Use Carries Mental Health Risks—Yes, Even Marijuana
"We know serious mental illness and substance use disorders often co-occur. And I believe there is room for researching the medical potential of marijuana’s components. But pretending that marijuana is a harmless substance is not the way to help our loved ones." -
Reshaping My Relationship with Myself
"As a dancer, my world has always been full of mixed messages about bodies. The 'ballerina body' was often discussed, and attaining that body type was a goal for many. As I got serious about dance, I felt pressure to change my body." -
Hope is Within Reach
"During my years of volunteer work, I have been constantly reminded that I’m not alone. After struggling on my own and feeling helpless for a long time, I now know that there are so many people experiencing similar struggles."
