Live Free 999 encourages everyone to speak openly about mental health. We have created a space to share the stories sent to us from our audience to inspire others to share their own journeys, creating a virtual story-telling chain of community and support.
Notice: Some of the stories shared may contain topics that could be emotionally triggering to some members of our audience. Topics such as suicide, self-harm, substance abuse, and trauma are discussed.
Embracing Vulnerability: My Mental Health Journey I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression, often feeling overwhelmed by the darkness. But I’ve learned that sharing my story is a powerful step toward healing. For me, recovery has been a journey of self-discovery, self-care, and support. Here are some lessons I’ve learned along the way: 1. *Seek help*: Don’t be afraid to reach
For a long time, I thought the only way to deal with my pain was to escape it. The anxiety and sadness felt like too much, so I turned to pills and alcohol. It was easy to tell myself I was fine because, for a little while, it worked. The world got quieter, and the feelings I hated didn’t feel
Ever since I was little, I could tell I was a little more emotionally invested in things as well as more worried than other kids. I went through elementary school and middle school dealing with lots of anxiety, hard emotions, and self-doubt that forced me to mature way quicker than most kids my age, and I found it harder and
Hi. My name is Artist. I’m 16 years old and I’ve struggled with depression for as long as I can remember. I’ve self harmed for over 2 years now, and haven’t been clean for that long, but I’m still fighting the good fight. Depression is overwhelming for everyone who suffers with it. We get told that “it’s ok to not
Three years ago was homeless while in high school. At the time I was struggling a lot with anxiety, whether it be social or just generally due to the situation. Was pretty depressed and was pretty close to hopeless. It took time and it took struggle. But, managed to graduate despite the circumstances (albeit barely). My family (Mom and siblings)
Two years ago when I was 18, I overdosed on a combination of several narcotics mixed with alcohol, and I ended up in the hospital. I would have died if I had taken a few more shots, is what the first responders told me when I woke up. I lost my parents’ trust, and our relationship hasn’t been what it
I struggled with anxiety and depression for many years. It all started with my dad getting sick and needed a lung transplant. He ended up getting the transplant, but the constant care of him was unbearable. I turned to drugs. I was using since the age of 12 years old. It started with alcohol and then went to weed and
“If anybody is going through anything, I hope and I pray that you get through it. And just know that you have the strength to get through whatever you going through, no matter what it is” -Juice Reading all of y’all stories I realize how easy I had it. Thank you for your vulnerability. I’m Not so good at that. I
When I was thirteen, I started having depression and anxiety. I was being emotionally abused and manipulated by some of my teachers because I’m neurodivergent, queer, and struggling with mental health. Certain teachers tried to change who I was because they didn’t like that I was different. In grade nine, I started to get bullied by students almost every day,
Experiencing a crisis? Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988
or Text the Crisis Text Line by Texting “LF999” to 741741.
