Jasmin
Jasmin
No matter the obstacles, you can survive
Jasmin thinks of herself as a survivor. She is using her story to help others advocate for their mental health—no matter the obstacles—and become survivors too.
Oftentimes, when you have mental health issues, you honestly have to bear the struggle of not giving up hope in finding the right care and support in the system.
It’s a struggle, but I continue to try.
At age 20, Jasmin was diagnosed with major depressive disorder after a suicide attempt. Initially, she had bad experiences with the mental health system, and she was in denial about her condition.
Later, she was also diagnosed with anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many times, problems with the system have kept her from reaching out for help.
Unfortunately, my experiences being directly in the system have been horrible. I’ve been in institutions twice, and both times I felt like I was in jail.
The second time I went to a facility, I actually had bars on my windows. I came out feeling worse, which is something that I feel needs to change.
“Holding it in never solves anything. It doesn’t feel good either. It’s okay to admit you’re struggling. You don’t have to be ashamed.”
After many ups and downs, Jasmin has found a treatment program that is helping her. But, based on her past, she is not confident that it will last.
My new provider doesn’t even live in my state. We talk through video, and she has been helpful during very confusing and stressful times.
I’m very thankful for her, but it still doesn’t help me in a crisis.
I’m afraid to get help in this system when I’m in crisis mode, and I’m sad about that.
Jasmin has learned a lot about navigating the health care system.
These days, she is using her knowledge and experience to educate others and push for needed change.
She tells her story on her blog and social media. She wants people to be open about their conditions and ask for help.
Holding it in never solves anything. It doesn’t feel good either. It’s okay to admit you’re struggling. You don’t have to be ashamed.
