Sarah | The Mighty

I was lucky enough to know Meg Griffo, the editor in chief at The Mighty, because we went to the same university, although she was a few years ahead of me. I actually started out as a writer – Meg asked to republish a blog I had written about using the counseling center at my school, and I published a few more pieces after that. Writing was how I processed the mental health challenges I was facing, so I saw The Mighty as the best way to explore what I was experiencing. Then I started to work there after I graduated from school.

I believe the main goal of The Mighty is to give people a space to share their stories and connect with each other

Thank you for saying that. To be honest, it really took a friend pushing me to get help. I’ll never forget it – he actually asked me to humor him and write 10 reasons why he thought I would benefit from counseling. When the ten reasons came  easily, I realized maybe it was something I should try. I always thought I wasn’t “bad enough” to use the school’s resources, and seeing that list staring me in the face was something I couldn’t ignore. I think sometimes we need that extra push.

When I’m having a tough day, I usually need some yoga or some alone time. I get overwhelmed when I have too many back to back social plans, or if I forget to take enough breaks at work. Since my anxiety is so physical, yoga really helps me release all of the tension that’s been building up in my body. Then when I’m alone, writing in my journal helps me process what I’m feeling, and reading helps me forget. I also find going for a hike or spending time outside really grounds me. And I love the meditation app Headspace!

My favorite quote is one by Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” It reminds me I don’t just have to accept what I’ve been given, but that I can fight back.

To be honest, I’m kind of sick of writing about anxiety. But I’ve always loved writing for the mental health world, and I’m really fascinated by the range of viewpoints that exist in the community. I’d love to get a chance to explore and dig deep into other issues people care about.

The mental health community is vibrant on Twitter! I’ve met so many great people online, which has led me to connect with some advocates in Los Angeles. It’s been great getting to know people in real life, but Twitter was a great place for me to start.

Keep the conversation going. And listen.

I would say that “coming out” doesn’t have to be some big and public thing. Although I do publish pieces about my experience, I’m actually pretty reserved about what I post on social media – especially Facebook. Because at the end of the day, your health is your health, and it’s OK if you’re more of a private person. But, that doesn’t mean what you’re going through should be a secret either. I’d redefine your expectation of “coming out.” “Coming out” can be simply telling your friend you’re having a bad day, or admitting to your parents you’ve been having bad thoughts. Talking about mental health in your smaller circles isn’t less significant.