I've been a runner for over half my life, but I've never known how to convince other people to start running. Everyone already knows all the reasons to start: improved cardiovascular fitness, increased life expectancy. Everyone knows that more time in the sun means more vitamin D. Everyone has heard about, if not personally [...]
It seems simple enough. I served, too! In the US Army, for eight years and even deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. But I and thousands of other women vets, many also married to a veteran, are always overlooked, not only by the public, but also our fellow veterans and the systems that [...]
I can’t remember a time before mental illness in my life, a time before the thoughts of my own death swam in and out between wondering what was on television and which crayon I wanted to pick next. I can’t remember a time before seeing “visions” that no-one else saw, a time before hating [...]
Dear Alcohol, It's been a few days. I'll be honest, I miss you a little. When I woke up the other day and decided to let you go, I still was unsure about it. After all, we have had so many good times together. When did we meet? I think I was 16 or [...]
I was diagnosed in high school with depression and anxiety then later in life diagnosed with body dysmorphic disorder. Looking back on my childhood, I can see the ways I was struggling then and the unhealthy coping skills I learned. Being diagnosed helped in some ways because it gave me a concrete reason as [...]
About the Author: Darrin Mosley Jr. is a York native who earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Slippery Rock University. Darrin, who majored in Dance and minored in Theater, can be found in various theater productions around Pittsburgh. Darrin also enjoys teaching the love of dance and performing to Pittsburgh youth. [...]
Trigger Warning: The following content contains light discussion of sexual violence. Sometimes I just stare at the wall. Sometimes I just stare at the wall and find myself in the Land of Make Believe. I can run, play skip, and dance, and no one will look at me like I’m the C word (crazy). [...]
I haven’t always struggled with seasonal change, it wasn’t until the age of 35 in late autumn that I had my first struggle with seasonal change and I attributed much of this to my loss of work during winter months. I was self-employed as a home remodeling contractor and my workload peaked during spring, summer and [...]
Men and Mental Health used to sound like an oxymoron. When I grew up it was “boys don’t cry,” or “suck it up,” or my favorite “stop acting like a little girl,” as if girls were the only ones who experienced different emotions. Now, I’ll agree that showing your emotions is a sign of weakness to predators [...]
I often reflect back on my initial diagnosis, relapse and how far I’ve come beating a path to recovery. We all know the stigma associated with mental health. Being a man, particularly in Marine Corps during my initial diagnosis, carries a little extra weight. I’m the oldest son, biggest brother and head of the household. I grew up playing and [...]
