{Suicide Trigger Warning} Life is not linear. Growth is not linear. Healing is not linear. I've never taken a straight path through life...my journey has had many winding turns. When I was younger I followed what society expected of me without ever stopping to question it. This caused me to suffer in silence from depression, anxiety and unaddressed trauma. Eventually it led me to contemplate suicide at age 18, an experience that is all too common but still completely taboo for many people to talk about. Now more than ever I feel the importance to share this tough topic. Many can look at the outward appearance of anyone and judge - the truth is we never know what people are really going through. I always want my platform to be a safe space. My hope is that by being open and honest about my own past struggles, I can help at least ONE person to know they are not alone. These days, I live my life with immense gratitude for every healthy day I am given. I believe that understanding oneself is the most significant joy of being human. The relationship with ourself is never-ending, constantly changing, yet the adventure of a lifetime. Keep pushing through- there is light on the other end! #mentalhealth #transformation #speakup #suicide