So it is that time of the year again when I take up the commitment to be as honest and open with my readers about mental health, its importance, and how it has made an impact in my life.
Last year, I ran across the Canvas of the Minds blog and was immediately blown away by the unbelievable people who literally lay out their stories on the internet for millions to see. Not only this, but the community it created, full of immense support and good faith, was equally astounding. I believe that there isn’t a single person out there who hasn’t had moments that could relate to this community. Whether it be depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, OCD, trauma, or just a lack of sense of self- I know we all have to experience something that weakens our mental state at one point or another. Or maybe I’m in denial, but I doubt it.
My journey with creating a solid foundation for my mental health has been long considering how young I am. Many genetic and existential factors have played into my life, making me need to find a way to adjust to the many different moments living creates. I can say that the single factor that has always kept me trucking on, throughout all the madness that can be your early-twenties (finding out who you are and how you are going to live your life can be a rough journey!), is the incredible support system that I have been blessed to have found. The movement that Canvas of the Minds created only furthered the idea in my head that everyone has their demons and we are never alone in the challenges we face each day. Not only this, but I believe that this community is the most understanding, non-judgemental group of people I have ever encountered. It’s truly a light in the darkness.
Mental health has had a stigma for as long as anyone can remember and it is simply ridiculous, especially with the growing number of people that need support coping with certain aspects of mental health. For me, mental health is about living so fully that you radiate and having a meaningful perspective. Unfortunately, sometimes we have to evolve and learn, it isn’t hot-wired into all of us, or we are made to believe the wrong thing about ourselves and about life over time.
This blog is essentially a story of my life. It encompasses what inspires me and what changes me. It is something that grows (hopefully) over time. But more than anything, I like to think it helps me meditate on what is important in my own life, and maybe even gives a little light to someone else. (I always keep it positive!)
“I pledge my commitment to the Blog for Mental Health 2014 Project. I will blog about mental health topics not only for myself, but for others. By displaying this badge, I show my pride, dedication, and acceptance for mental health. I use this to promote mental health education in the struggle to erase stigma.”
Here are some blog posts that I have had over the last year that have shared my journey with mental health, and living in general! (Though, this isn’t the only thing I blog about!)
Success and Small Talk – My journey with the idea of success
A Whole New Perspective – How a little change in perspective can make a big difference for me
A Round About Quest for Inner Peace – My breakthrough with finding peace, thank you E. Tolle
A Little Bird – My favorite story to tell, ever, and my constant reminder for life.
May this year be full and bright!
For more information about this amazing event, hop on over to the Canvas of the Mind’s post.
You can also view my Blog for Mental Health 2013 pledge here.
Simply & Softly 
Okay, confession time. When I first add blogs to the Blogroll, I usually don’t read the posts as much as I skim them, which I hope you understand, given the volume that come in all at once. So when I sat down and actually read what you wrote just now, looking for an excerpt to share out on the Blog For Mental Health site, I was absolutely floored by the kind words you had about Canvas.
I’m a little speechless (which is fairly rare for me!) but I want so very much to say thank you on behalf of all of the wonderful people involved, and an especial thank you from me. I cannot even begin to express how much your words mean to me.
I wholeheartedly think what you all are doing is amazing, and genius really. I can’t think of a better way to get rid of the stigma that comes with mental health issues. I feel honored to have been able to witness the stories of so many strong individuals! What you are doing is just plain and simply awesome 😊 thanks for all your hard work and commitment to Canvas!