I want to take the time to share with the world a recent photography project I did with my younger sister about mental illness. I was hesitant to do this photo series at first because I knew it would take true bravery and raw emotion to embody what it means to suffer silently. My hesitation quickly subsided when my sister Elise got in front of the camera, and proved what an honest and willing heart is truly capable of.
This is dedicated to those that have been touched by mental illness in some way, in a society that continues to deny the severity of this issue.
To Lose a Sense of Self.
The issue of mental illness in our society is one we need to shed more light on, discuss and understand further. Losing yourself through a disease mentally is complicated, and everyone's journey is different.
To Suffer from Within.
It's an unspoken process that consequently grows deeper with inner wounds. There is no way to articulate what is truly happening, leaving a seemingly lifeless heart to beat on with the rhythm of life. Hold on just one more moment, because healing can have the power to follow the next exhale.
To Feel Alone.
The aching of a heart not justified by belonging creates a numbing, yet juxtaposing sense of pain. Withstanding the doubt inside the mind takes patience, positivity, and the ability to see the possibility amongst the darkness. The truth is, darkness can only exist with the essence of light in mind.
To Find a Light Within.
There is a dawn that arises within a soul pining for hope. This light from within is natural strength we all carry. If there is a belief in such a light, there is a belief in diminishing the darkness.
To Discover Self Worth.
Never let the manipulation of doubt create belief in the destructive. Those who suffer are a true gift to the world; they know darkness and will not take for granted their light, once it is acknowledge from within.
To love what is broken is the most selfless contribution we can give to the world. If you or someone you know is affected by mental illness, know that living life to the fullest is more than possible to a willing heart.
