I was clinically diagnosed with depression at the age of 15. A confused girl being shuffled through the foster care system since birth. Today, I am almost 29. Meaning half my whole life span, I've been "battling" sometimes debilitating thoughts and at times, self harm. Hospitalizations, loss of jobs and relationships. People seemed to leave me when I needed them there the most. Must be my "craziness" scaring people away again, I used to think to myself. I never took medication but I also never gave up on seeking counselling or some sort of support with my mental health. There is usually always this stigma with my mental health that I face. That it's all in my head and I "choose" to feel and act the way I do. Truth be told, my own mind, thoughts and feelings have taken over me time and time again. With this time that passed, my hope and faith has stuck by me and even grown bigger. Having mental health issues can make you feel alone and like no one will ever understand. But we are not alone. Help, growth and change is possible, I believe it!