One of the privileges I enjoy in my life is the opportunity to speak openly and honestly about my mental health struggles, challenges, and successes. I get to be the person I need in the world, and I get to pay forward the kindness and support so many people gave me while I was in the early years of recovery and scared to death that I would suffer night terrors, panic attacks, and uncontrollable anxiety for the rest of my life.
A combination of medication, EMDR and IFS therapy, and the love and support of my close friends and family all came together to save my life (literally) and help me find a way into a life that is fulfilling and joyful more often than it is not.
I am not suggesting that there’s nothing tricky about it, it’s just a little trick1. What I am saying is, access to medical care — physical and mental — is a human right, and in the richest country in the world, it should be freely accessible to everyone.
Until then, I am honored and grateful to lend my voice and my support to the organizations who work tirelessly to provide that care at low or no cost, organizations that are so important and always underfunded.
One of those organizations is right here in my backyard, and on October 23, I am speaking at the San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center’s 55th Anniversary Gala. We hope to raise some money to help them help our neighbors, and I’m going to share my story, which I hope inspires someone to take the first step on their own recovery journey.
We’re doing this at the magnificent Valley Relics Museum, and the event is open to the public. If you’re able to come to Van Nuys later this month, I hope you’ll join us.
- That would be the Brad Jacobs … something or other. ↩︎
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Oh I wish I could come . I live in Anaheim .
I would really love to hear you speak on this subject. I think you have a lot to offer in the way of past experiences and grown wisdom!
I’m sure you will Crusher it!
I am honored to hear your stories on this topic. Most folks don’t understand the devastation that occurs with mental illness. They think that mental illness is somehow self-inflicted, which is far from the truth. I’m so proud of you for your journey and willingness to tell it.
Thank you, friend. The last couple days have been a mental beast for me. Just, thank you.
Thank you for having the courage to stand up and speak to the parts of your life most of us keep hidden. You have much to be proud of in building your strength and the support of people who love you.
Sorry we can’t be there to support you, we were out there for our yearly visit last week.
All the best to you.