The Reality of “High Functioning” Depression

The day I turned in my master’s thesis, I woke up early. I curled my hair and applied a generous coat of makeup — even making time for contouring and setting spray. I posed for pictures with a school friend; we beamed, holding our freshly printed and bound 100-page...

Bridging the Gap: Why Black Voices Must Shape Mental Health Research

My journey with mental health didn’t just shape my perspective; it led me to this work. As Director of Mental Health Equity Innovation at NAMI, I bring both professional expertise and personal lived experience to the fight for mental health equity. I know firsthand...

From Gang Member to Mental Health Advocate

I grew up in an inner-city community in San Diego, California, called “Southeast.” This area has always been known for crime, drugs and — most notably — gangs. Despite my family’s well-intentioned efforts to keep me away from gangs, the gang culture still pulled me...

Mental Illness and Substance Use During Pregnancy Rising

Mental illness and substance use during pregnancy may lead to adverse maternal and birth outcomes, and recent research highlights concerning trends for both risk factors. Based on analysis of 2012-2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data, the prevalence of any...
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