This graphic pretty much sums up why.
I swear, the more I open up my mouth and tell my story, the more people do the same. It’s freeing for us both.
I’ve said before that since it’s easier to say, “Me too,” I’m willing to share first and give the other person that benefit. It’s been a tremendous blessing in my life to finally be unmasked.
Look, I know that the world is not a safe place. I’m not saying that you have to announce your secrets to the world. And I’m definitely not saying that you should feel ashamed if you choose to keep them.
But that said, telling my story has taken away much of my shame and given me freedom and joy. I want that for you too.
I dare you to find one person– one safe person– and take off your mask this week. Tell your story; it’s okay if you’re timid. I was a mouse about my OCD once upon another life. Now I get to be the lion.
For (lots!) more about OCD and ERP, go to jackieleasommers.com/OCD.
JACKIE LEA SOMMERS 
That quote/graphic truly does summarize mental health. Thank you for sharing this, it sounds like you’ve got a positive outlook. I’ve written a post on mental health in hopes to do my part in helping others feel not so alone. Feel free to give it a read! http://youngandtwenty.com/2014/05/15/dont-judge-a-mind-by-its-cover/
What you say is SO true, Jackie. It never ceases to amaze me that almost everyone has their own story, which they are willing to share once I mention my son has OCD. Sure, it can be scary to share our secrets, but I do believe it can help so many people. That’s what I have to keep reminding myself as I gear up for the publication of my memoir in January 2015.:)
I am SO excited for your memoir, Janet! Do you have a title and cover already?
No cover yet, but the title is Overcoming OCD: A Journey to Recovery. I’ll be blogging a bit about it soon!
Excellent! 🙂 I’ll be looking forward to hearing more!
Love it. Hearing Katy Perry’s ‘ROAR” when I read this post.
LOL, totally!!
Oh, yes, I agree with you, Jackie. It seems like people WANT to talk about these things once the subject is broached.
Absolutely!
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I greatly appreciate your openness in talking about your illness and also your sensitivity in not insisting that others follow suit. I too can appreciate why some choose to remain hidden, but the reality is the best way to bust stigma is by telling our stories.
I’ve included an excerpt and link to this post in my blog’s “Mental Health Monday” this week.
Keep up the faithful writing.
Thank you so much, Tony! And I agree: the more I’ve unmasked myself, the more freedom I gain!