Mental illness played a big part in my upraising and has continued into adulthood.  I can only recall a short period of my life when mental illness was not part directly a part of my life.  I have never considered running from those that are affected with mental illness, would you run from someone because they have diabetes?  Mental illness is an illness and we as a society need to break the stigma of mental illness. 

The only way I know to break the stigma is to actually talk about the subject and help those that are affected.  The overall health and happiness of the world would increase greatly if we would help just acknowledge that the brain can be sick as well.

In support of mental health, I have started “The You Matter Collection” which is a collection of mental health resources to help those that are affected by mental illness.  The collection currently includes stress reducing coloring sheets, journal books and a worksheet.  Check back as more may be added in the future.