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What comes to mind when you think of events that may be the cause of post-traumatic stress disorder…
Read Personal Mental Health Stories
by Jarek Tadla
02.27.2025
Depression and anxiety have a way of creeping into even the most “successful” lives. I convinced myself that if I just worked harder, I’d finally feel whole. But no matter how much I accomplished, it was never enough. I reached a breaking point where I had to make a choice: keep pretending, or finally ask for help. The truth is, reaching out for help was the strongest thing I had ever done.
by Christopher Fontana
02.20.2025
Depression consumed me, making even the smallest tasks feel impossible. I was stuck in a vicious cycle, drink to escape, wake up filled with regret, and repeat. I knew I had to make a change or risk losing everything. Today, I am a sober mental health advocate, 100 pounds lighter, and stronger than I’ve ever been, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
by Cass Camack
02.18.2025
I had been battling depression, anxiety, MDD (major depressive disorder),panic disorder, and trichotillomania for years, but I had kept it hidden, pretending to be okay and convincing myself that I could power through it. Today, I’m learning to live with my mental health challenges, not as a burden but as a part of me.
by Caitlyn Jennings
02.10.2025
My journey with bipolar II disorder has been difficult, but I’ve learned that recovery is possible with the right resources and outlook. ADAA’s resources have been a part of my healing process, providing education and support as I navigate living well with bipolar II disorder. Today, I can celebrate my life again, with genuine hope for what’s next.
by Yung Lord Fine$$
02.06.2025
While I don’t have personal experiences with anxiety or depression, I’ve dedicated this project to those who do, as I deeply admire their strength in facing such challenges.
by Pat Reese
01.30.2025
I made a vow to never drive again, and for 7 years I didn’t. But my friend proved to me that I could ‘Do It Afraid’; I could drive regardless of my feelings of anxiety and discomfort. I am learning to temper my unrealistic expectations for my life, for anxiety, and for how it impacts me.
Share Your Story and Your Voice.
Help #breakthestigma Around Mental Health.
Read Personal Stories From People Just Like You.
ADAA features a variety of personal stories shared by individuals who have experienced mental health challenges. These stories are meant to provide hope, raise awareness, and reduce stigma by showcasing real-life experiences. They often focus on overcoming obstacles related to anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, sharing coping strategies, and emphasizing the importance of seeking help.
Reading these stories can be a great way to feel less alone in your own journey, as well as learn helpful tips and coping mechanisms from others who’ve gone through similar experiences.
Do you have a story about your personal mental health journey? Your voice and your story can help transform the lives of many, help decrease stigma, and make one feel less alone.
We welcome written personal stories and short 2-3 minute videos, or a 1-2 minute recording, that we will share on the ADAA website, through our Triumph e-newsletter, and across our social media platforms.
In a story of 500 -750 words (or a 2-3 minute video), please describe your mental health journey and how it has affected your life. Please provide a brief title and focus on the therapy or other treatments that have helped you manage or overcome your illness. Please include how ADAA's website or resources have helped you. In order to publish you story on our website and to share it on our social media platforms, we require that you use your real name and include a photo.
Please note that we do not accept advertorials (these stories should not include any call-outs for personal websites or publications or sell any products). We reserve the right to reject any story that we do not feel is appropriate to share.
NOTE: ADAA reserves the right to edit for clarity, length, and editorial style. We do not guarantee that every submission will be published. If your story is accepted, you will be notified. If you have not heard from ADAA within one week of submission that means that your story has not been accepted. Once your story is posted on this website, it is the property of ADAA.
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