Mental health is not just an idea, it’s part of my daily life. I’m a parent of 11 children. Yes, 11. Six are stepchildren, and two of those six were adopted. Of the remaining five, four are biological, and one is adopted. So genetics may play a role, but clearly, environment and experience do too. That’s why I’m not surprised that mental health challenges have touched every part of my family, step, adopted, and biological alike.

What I’ve learned is that mental health issues are much more common than many people realize. It doesn’t matter how someone enters your life, anyone can struggle, and anyone can thrive. What makes the difference is access to the right support, services, and treatment. And not just the standard approaches, new, innovative options are needed now more than ever.

Managing my own mental health is part of how I stay strong for my children. Balancing that with daily life isn’t always easy. Sometimes I still get those familiar butterflies in my stomach, the anxiety, the racing thoughts. As a parent who’s lived through my own challenges, I worry. I wonder if my children will face the same struggles. Will they be strong enough? Will they ask for help? Will they find the right doctor or medication? Will their journey be easier than mine?

It’s a heavy feeling, especially when your children are adults and making their own choices. You want to guide them, but you can’t control their path. And for the children in my life who are still struggling but not seeking professional help, those choosing to self-medicate, I want to speak directly to you.

I know how tempting it is to numb the pain. I’ve been there. But I also know that the relief it brings is short-lived, and the damage it causes can be deep, for you and for those who love you. Medication prescribed and managed by a doctor can be helpful, but it’s important to know that using substances alongside medication can interfere with its effectiveness. It can derail your healing.

You are stronger than you think. You don’t have to carry it all alone. I am here. My hand is always reaching out. All you have to do is reach back when you’re ready.