Owning your story is the BRAVEST thing you'll ever do. -Brene Brown
 

In 2016 my fingers were trembling after I hit "post" sharing with the world what living with bipolar type two and anxiety looks like for me. I didn't expect to receive so many messages from others who live with mental disorders. They were sharing their struggles, understanding, and love. So many were letting me know I was not alone. Others were telling me how brave I was with being so open. I didn't feel as though I was being brave, I just felt like it was time to be honest with myself and who I am. It was time to share how bipolar and anxiety are a big part of me. I was tired of trying to keep that part of me a secret. I was tired of worrying about how I was going to be treated once someone found out. I was ready to just be me! I found that by sharing my story it made it easier for others to share their story. This led me to find This Is My Brave and I instantly fell in love their mission and the tag line "Storytelling Saves Lives" and I knew I needed to be involved!

I know by sharing our stories we can help each other from feeling isolated by their illness and help the people around us to understand what life can feel like dealing with mental illness. Please help me bring mental illness into the light and push out the stigma. Please join us to hear our stories. If you are unable to be there please consider giving directly to this amazing nonprofit. I truly believe that we can make massive strides in mental health awareness and understanding by sharing our stories.