Mental Health

Acknowledging the healing power of storytelling for mental health

The first time I was encouraged to review my life story, I was sceptical. The idea struck me as an exercise in self-indulgent navel-gazing, even futility. What good could it do to review a past that couldn’t be changed? But I agreed to try, and what an impact it had.

Grace and compassion – the cornerstones in my mental health journey

Akona did not let an attempted carjacking and psychotic episode derail her from being the mother her son deserves.

My life was not worth living

A young woman tells her story of overcoming guilt and finding fresh strength for life.

Depression made me feel weak

When Anela’s depression became more severe, she thought that suicide was the only option. She recounts the story of how it brought her to a halt, and how, eventually, she survived.

I made the right choice

When her stepfather and mother got a divorce, Daniella’s life nearly fell apart. It affected her health, and all of a sudden, she had to fend for herself.

I took his shame and made it my identity

The sexual abuse Connie endured while her family lived in a squatter camp was the beginning of a tough road that would include anorexia, drugs, abuse, infidelity, prostitution and her daughter’s suicide. Against all odds, Connie triumphed.

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