Hello,
My name is Jourdan. We don’t know each other but I know what it’s like to walk the same path. The all consuming darkness that takes over your life. Your relationships. Your hobbies. It feels endless.
Can I tell you something a little about myself? I love stories. Especially ones that follow the hero’s journey narrative structure. Because the good guy always wins.
I know life isn’t a fairytale. No dragons, no wizards (much to my dismay) and no band of misfits destined to save the world. But in my little corner of the world, my adversary is my own mental health.
I thought I had to take it on alone. And in some ways, I did. I got stronger in some aspects. But I also gained a few unhealthy coping skills.
I saw that I couldn’t do it alone, not without guidance. I got counselling, it took a couple times to find a good fit but it was worth it. I also found supportive friends. My own merry band of misfits.
I don’t tell you this as a pat on the back for myself, getting to this point took years. It took hard truths. It took acceptance of my shortcomings as a person, as a friend and even as a husband and father.
It’s okay to need help. It’s okay to not be strong enough. It’s okay to not have hope. Because it’s part of being human. You have to be your own hero, sometimes it’s as simple as being brave enough to seek help.
You need to stick around to see what your hero’s journey has in store for you.
You are worthy of the effort. You are worthy of kindness. You are worthy of love and acceptance. Because worth isn’t measured by usefulness or perceived value. You are inherently worthy because you are alive and here, right now.
I believe in you. Millions believe in you. So don’t give up on yourself.
From one survivor to another, my heart is with you. Drink some water. Open a window. Get some much deserved sleep. And most importantly, breathe. That breath is proof you are strong enough to make it through this.
Take care.
Jourdan