Michael
Michael
Out of the darkness and into the light
For a long time, I would never talk to anyone about how much I struggled, but today I would scream out my journey to everyone.
Not one human being should have to endure the pain that comes with mental health challenges.
Michael’s journey with mental health started around the time he was 11 years old, when he showed signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
At 12, he began experiencing feelings of depression and anxiety. At 15, he was hospitalized for three months following a suicide attempt.
When I started treatment, mental health was not as understood as it is today.
But even though we have more knowledge and options, too many of us do not seek treatment.
After being released from that hospital at 15, Michael ventured out on his own for the first time.
Treatment made him feel better, but depression would creep back into his life. Like many people, he self-medicated, tricking himself into believing he felt better when, in fact, alcohol and drugs simply magnified his problems.
“For a long time, I would never talk to anyone about how much I struggled, but today I would scream out my journey to everyone.”
He spent time at McLean Hospital, where he was diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression.
In response, Michael engaged in a number of treatments, with varying levels of success. He also started seeing a therapist, and that has made a tremendous impact on his day-to-day well-being.
He has become a strong advocate for therapy.
In all honesty, I think everyone should have a therapist. It is the human connection that is incredibly important because, in the throes of depression, you tend to isolate, and that is totally unhealthy.
A therapist will know you better than anyone else if you allow her to and can become your touchstone like mine is for me. Your therapist will always hold your confidence. Her job is to listen to you and offer guidance on therapeutic options.
Beyond professional help, Michael has also made major changes in his personal life. He exercises, takes care to eat right, does yoga and Reiki, meditates, and tries to stay away from negative forces that can heighten his depression.
He hopes others will learn from hearing about his journey.
We all strive for good health, be it conquering depression, cancer, or heart disease.
Think of the colors black and white. Think of any condition as being black and dark, and successful treatment as being the bright light of white.
Think ‘Out of the darkness and into the light.’
