For this photo essay project, I photographed a series of objects that connect directly to terms and experiences I encounter on a daily basis while coping with a mental illness. My photographs will talk about the process of accepting depression and learning how to live and move forward while making the best of my life. Depression is a common affliction in society today for many reasons, may it be environmental, internal or inherited. How people acknowledge their mental illness is unique in its own way as everybody has different coping strategies. I want to challenge myself to find new avenues toward healing, coping, and renewal through art and the creative process. Mental health issues cannot be shelved or put on the back burner, so I want to take the opportunity to explore my world in a true holistic sense. In this photo essay, I capture my experience with depression, and the symbols and meanings I connect to. This series of photographs provide a sense of release and awareness, not just for myself, but for others who may connect to what I have to say, whilst finding a beauty in the deep and dark mundane aspects of my life.
Trigger – Anything, as an act or event, that serves as a stimulus and initiates or precipitates a reaction or series of reactions.
Stress – A reaction to a stimulus that disturbs our physical or mental equilibrium.
Anti-Depressants – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (or SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders. They work by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter serotonin.
Paranoia– An unfounded or exaggerated distrust of others, sometimes reaching delusional proportions. Paranoid individuals constantly suspect the motives of those around them, and believe that certain individuals, or people in general, are “out to get them.”
Self-Depricating Thoughts – the act of belittling or undervaluing oneself
This is my experience.
sallyann16 
Beautiful photos. You are beautiful – inside and out. Love that you are sharing your experience.
Thank you Mary Jane ! ❤ Miss you! xx
I am so impressed by your courage and willingness to share. I have bipolar and have depressive episodes that are sometimes disabling but have learned to cope and live a full life – work, family, friends…when I was 16 I was not as aware and confident as you are. Keep doing and being…you are a gift. Thank you for sharing.