The purpose of sharing this story is to show others that healing is possible.

My mental health struggles came to a peak when I was sexually assaulted in college. When that happened, people told me I would deal with ptsd and sever depression forever, among other things. That one night of my life would define me and be a burden I’d have to carry for the rest of my life…. and I believed it.

At first I thought it made sense I would deal with this forever because I was hearing it from others who had been through it. But, as time went on, I couldn’t bear the thought that I would be experiencing severe ptsd symptoms forever. I simply couldn’t survive that way. So I found a way to heal and to find justice in some unexpected ways. It certainly wasn’t always easy, but I can truly say I no longer carry this burden.

This story isn’t just for survivors of sexual assault. It’s for anyone who has struggled with their mental health and ever thought there wasn’t a way through. I hope my journey towards healing can serve as inspiration and encouragement that healing is possible no matter how winding the road or how steep the climb.