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Personal Journeys
A Peek Inside: The Secret Side of Today's Youth
by Francesca Pileggi
In January 2011, I started asking students to anonymously answer the question, "If we actually knew you, what would we know?" on a note card at the end of my health class presentations. Using all the responses that are labeled "okay to share," I facilitate workshops in the Philadelphia area. During workshops, I mix up handfuls of responses from all different schools and pour them out on a table in front of other students. Those students sort through the responses, find one that they can relate to, and turn it into art. At the end of my speaking engagements, I show the video below, which features dozens of completed secrets.
My hope is that all students identify with at least one response and the realization that they're not alone will encourage them to open up and seek help.
My Journey
Heather Marie Miller
Is it possible to go through 20 years of anorexia, bulimia, and major depression, and be able to create a life that is healthy, happy, and fun? Yes.
Is it possible to feel compelled to do self-destructive behaviors and to no longer feel compelled to do them? Yes.
Is it possible to be spiraling downward in an abyss of sadness and hopelessness, and to reverse the spiral to live with contentment and joy? Yes.
Blogs
Minding Your Mind presents these personal blogs from two people dealing with their mental health issues. These brave young adults are willing to share their story to inspire teens and their families struggling with similar issues.
Life After the Fall
Jordan Burnham
My name is Jordan Burnham and I’m a 19 year-old guy that suffers from depression. Last year I tried to commit suicide by jumping out of my 9-story bedroom window. After falling over 100 feet, by miracle I survived and now I am trying to make a positive from such a horrible nightmare. My story has been featured in newspapers, magazines, and TV as well. I am able to go around talking to middle schools and high schools about my story and my mental disorder, depression. I'm writing this blog for the Minding Your Mind Foundation to show you that, although I live with depression every day, my life still functions like anyone else’s.
My Fight for IMperfection
Melissa Hopely
My name is Melissa Hopely. I am a very determined and outgoing 22 year-old who battles Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Although my struggles can be difficult at times, I still live everyday just the same as all of you. I'm writing this blog for the Minding Your Mind Foundation to show that even when one lives with a physical or mental illness or disorder, they can still lead a pretty normal and pretty AMAZING life. I guess my journey begins now and hope you guys will stick with me and follow my interesting, but definitely IMperfect life!