Editorial

If nothing else, mental health is humbling. It was humbling to get my own diagnosis, to realise I lacked the vocabulary to talk about my experiences, and to stand in front of you and ask you to do better than I could. Your responses flooded in. Article contributions are always profusely appreciated, but this? The resilience, eloquence, and positivity was overwhelming. Inspiring. Humbling.

Imagine if ten years ago we’d done the same: made a plea on social media for people to share their mental health stories. We’d have been met with resounding silence for the most part. A diagnosis would have felt shameful—like failure—and need to be shuttered away; we’re fine, everything’s fine. Even in 2018, it can be scary to talk openly about it.

This is why we’re proud to be able to share your stories and honoured to do so. We’re talking depression, anxiety, experiences in rehab and psych wards, and dealing with memory loss. We have advice on supporting yourself and the people you know, on mindfulness and positivity.

Mental health problems don’t discriminate. Nor do they ostracise—not any more.

To our contributors, thank you. To our readers, enjoy. ■

Jade Sterling

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