Kelly Jensen: Shattering Mental Health Myths with Honest Conversations
Doing so would feed into some of those lies that I wrote about: that there's only one way to be bad enough, or you're never going to match up. It's about her finding the tools and means of recovery to function as somebody who's been at the bottom of the bottom.
Kelly Jensen, an editor for Book Riot and a writer of young adult novels, sits down with TWLOHA’s Co-Executive Director Lindsay Kolsch in this episode of 'To Write Love on Her Arms'. Kelly shares her personal battles with depression and anxiety, revealing how these struggles have influenced both her life and her work.
She talks about her latest project, '(Don’t) Call Me Crazy: 33 Voices Start the Conversation about Mental Health', a mental health anthology aimed at breaking the silence around mental health issues. Kelly takes us through the five lies depression told her, providing a raw and unfiltered look at the internal battles many face. She also discusses the problematic portrayal of mental health in pop culture, which often oversimplifies or dramatizes these complex issues.
Her career as a youth librarian inspired her to create a platform where young people can find relatable stories and understand that they are not alone. In addition to sharing her journey, Kelly emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal struggles and seeking help. She touches on how practices like yoga have been beneficial for her mental well-being and underscores the need for self-care.
Her candid conversation serves as a powerful reminder that talking openly about mental health can help dismantle the stigmas that surround it. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of mental health. Kelly's insights offer both comfort and inspiration, making it clear that open dialogue and honest storytelling are crucial steps toward healing.