Growing Upward: My Lifelong Journey with Mental Health

Growing up, I never thought any of my thoughts were unhealthy. I assumed, like most of us, through the lens of childhood innocence that everyone thought the way I did. I remember thinking regularly that my life and experiences are no different than anyone else’s, rationalizing the abnormalities of childhood in the ’80s and ’90s where the drama was so regular it felt normal. Most of this book still, in a way, feels normal. But it’s only through the lens of living a life with others and a close connection to my God that I realize how broken we all are.

If you have ever struggled with having your thoughts control your life rather than you being in control of your thoughts, this book is for you. It’s always been important to me to be authentic, open, and honest with how I’m feeling. It has gotten me in trouble many times, but overall, I still feel like being vulnerable is worth it. This book is a vulnerable attempt to have readers relate to the struggle that many of us still aren’t comfortable addressing in ourselves.

Through over a decade of struggling therapy, reflection, learning to grieve, I believe my story will resonate with others like me. I want them to know, that although their story is unique, they are not alone in this battle. They, like me, can overcome. I want to tell you my story of growing upward.