“I’m a person that has a very naturally sunny disposition. I think there are many times in life when you have that cheery disposition, where things happen or people interact with you in a way that makes you not want to be that way anymore. I went through a long period of growth during college where I would go back and forth wondering if I could be that friendly outgoing person that I know I am. A lot of that came along with sexual identity, coming out, and being able to fully express myself. That’s when I realized how important self love and self acceptance is. That’s something that I think is so understated amongst young people when it comes to issues of depression and anxiety. I think rooted in so much of that is self love and self acceptance. When I turned the corner and was able to fully love and accept myself, I became so much healthier, mentally and physically. I was able to do that, because I surrounded myself with really supportive and positive people. I have an amazing family. I have a great network of support. Finding a community of support that I knew would love and accept me no matter what, was huge for me. I don’t think I could have ever done that by myself. There have been many ups and downs, but recently I’ve been able to find a healthy balance. Transitioning into a new job that I love, moving to a community where I feel secure in planting my roots, and making sure I dedicate time for myself has really helped my overall well being. I’ve lost 30 pounds over the last year, and have jumped into cooking for myself. Moving forward, I want to continue reminding myself that balance is so important. I’m on a journey of getting healthier and happier. I’m making great strides, but I want to continue making improvements.”