Personal Stories

I am in constant recovery, and this is only the beginning.

Sometimes, we catch ourselves asking how we can be in the position to help others work through things while facing our own struggles.

I’m not the perfect caregiver. But by throwing myself into this lifelong learning process, I’m much better able to help her when she needs it.

I recalled how my mother had struggled find the right help and support — the stress in her voice, the constant phone calls detailing terrible incidents that took place at the height of my brother’s symptoms.

For years, I carried the fear that bars us from living openly and freely, constantly worried and dreaming of being exposed, judged.

Ultimately, I hope that you will remember that people with mental illness have unique stories, and they are deserving of your time.

Have you ever looked out a dirty widow through which you could hardly see, then wiped it clean and enjoyed the view? That's the best way I can describe what this new regimen did for me.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that you need to prioritize having a good treatment team, cultivating honest friendships and practicing self-care and acceptance.

My parents were instrumental in helping me shed the deeply-internalized fear that my diagnosis would limit my future. They reminded me that if I took care of myself, my career would follow.

As I look back on my situation and other stories of incarceration, I hope to educate law enforcement and the public on a better approach to mental health crisis response. The bottom line? People in crisis do not belong in jail.