My name is Grace Fleming, and mental illness has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was just 9 years old when I started individual therapy, trying to make sense of feelings that felt way too big for a kid. By 14, I was prescribed my first SSRI. At 16, things became so overwhelming and unbearable that I was contemplating suicide. I was hospitalized for suicidal ideations and attended a daily, month-long outpatient program.

That month changed my life. For the first time, I was introduced to coping strategies and practical tools that actually helped. Instead of just talking about emotions, I learned real-life skills to get through hard days, manage the chaos in my mind, and navigate hardships.

During this time, I promised myself that I would always make an effort to improve my mental health. In college, I joined a therapy group focused on communication and healthy relationships. It helped me better understand myself and the people around me.

Then, at 25, I found myself in another mental health crisis and was hospitalized again. As part of my recovery, I committed to a two-year intensive therapy program. Week after week, I learned new coping skills and how to implement them into my life.

Of course, even with all of these tools, I still struggle with my mental health. It’s an ongoing battle. But now I feel far more equipped to handle it.