Landing Page Hero Image

Read Personal Stories 

Filter by:
by Rebecca G. Feinberg
“They’re just thoughts, And I don’t need to believe them, right?.”
by Tiara Johnson
I believe that the true display of strength comes from being willing to discuss and lean into the uncomfortable moments in life. Whether that is understanding the stages of grief, discussing the darker side of depression or even learning how to cope with social anxiety that comes with racial trauma, there is strength in embracing Black mental health. 
by Melissa Lewis-Duarte, Ph.D.
Developed several decades ago by Michele McDonald, RAIN is a tool for practicing mindfulness when we feel overwhelmed by our thoughts and emotions. As someone who both lives with anxiety and practices mindfulness, I found this framework practical and implementable.
by Emily Plajer & Heather Eastman
Bikini competitor and IFBB pro Emily Plajer faced tragedy early in life that gave her the perspective she needed to deal with her anxiety and share her strength with others.
Having won two world titles and spent 15 years in the Army infantry, Strongman Anthony Fuhrman can confidently say the strongest thing he's ever done is talk about mental health.
by Ryan "China" McCarney & Heather Eastman
A panic attack derailed baseball player China McCarney's plans for competition. Years later, he's learned how to cope with his anxiety and is inspiring athletes around the world to do the same.

Share Your Story and Your Voice.

Help #breakthestigma Around Mental Health.

Read 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 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 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. 

 

SUBMIT YOUR STORY


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.
Boost Search Results
Off
Educational Resources
Tips & Strategies from our Member Experts and Public Community
Block reference
Blog
Is my OCD going to get worse during pregnancy or after giving birth? The worry that OCD symptoms…
Webinar
Ask the Author Q&A: The Health Anxiety Handbook, presented by author Ken Goodman, LCSW
PERSONAL STORY
After enduring an abusive childhood, major health challenges, and years of self-discovery, Alex's…