Deconstructing My Mental Health

I was misled, misunderstood, and not enabled to get help, by the establishment, the community and my family.

My wife and I started Josh's Hope Foundation after the death of our son in 2008. We had

adopted a sibling group of 3 boys, all suffering from mental health issues. I think by raising my boys, seeing their issues, and attending many, many doctor appointments, I finally started to recognize my own mental health needs. Then we started Josh's Hope, and my understanding and acceptance grew.

I guess I am in whats called recovery, not cured but rather aware of my mental health issues and informed on how to manage my symptoms. Not everyone wants to be around me and that is finally okay. I no longer blame myself but also know not everyone can deal with my challenges. This is part of recovery, stop blaming myself and stop trying to please everyone.

I know from my work that telling your story can help others. I decided to tell my story even though it will be hard at times. I will be including the stories of some of the people I work with at Josh's Hope. These people inspire and encourage to me, and, I hope to others.

Here I want to explore the historical and environmental journey that brought me to the place I am today. In hindsight, I know that the eventual knowledge of how I came to where I am today was very helpful in my own acceptance and forgiveness.

We talk a lot about eliminating the stigma surrounding mental illness. I think the internalized stigma can be the most damaging. You must get to a spot where you accept yourself before you can get others to accept you. I hope my story will help others explore their journey so they can reach a place of self-acceptance.

To Be Continued..........................