What mental health issue did/do you struggle with:
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You can select more than one, however our only ask is that your story be primarily focused on your most significant mental health issue you had overcome or found a way to manage.
Briefly describe how it felt/feels on your body & mind:
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This is your chance to explain to others how it impacts your body.
How did your mental health issue(s) start:
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Share what triggered it...a major life event, slow buildup over time, trauma, loss, stress, or something else.
Did you get any help from anyone early on:
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There is no wrong answer here.
How did your mental health issue(s) continue:
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Explain why you believe it started to become a bigger issue for you.
Your daily struggles:
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Explain all the things that occurred in your day-to-day life as a result of your mental health.
Your lowest moment:
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Describe what happened in a particular situation and how you felt in the moment.
Did you get any help from anyone after this:
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There is no wrong answer here.
How did your struggles affect your family, partner, or children:
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Briefly share how your struggle impacted those often the closest to you.
Did your struggles change your friendships or social life:
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There are no wrong answers here.
How did your struggles change how you showed up for yourself:
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What self-help activities or things did you stop doing (exercise, routines/schedules, good daily habits, etc).
What made you start to fight back:
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Was it a conversation, a wake-up call, a decision you made for yourself, someone you love, or a low moment?
How did/do you continue to fight:
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Detail the hope you have that keeps you going and working on yourself.
Did you get any help from anyone to turn the page:
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There is no wrong answer here.
Where are you now:
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Share how life looks today. Just be honest about your progress, even if it’s still a daily battle.
Are you actively getting any help from anyone:
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Words of encouragement:
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What would you say to a man who is where you once were? Keep it real and keep it simple.
You just did something powerful. Sharing your story takes guts, and it’s going to help another man out there realize he’s not alone. Our team will review what you submitted, and once it’s ready, it will be posted on the Man Up Billy website at www.manupbilly.org/stories .
We’ll make sure your story is tagged with the date submitted and the mental health issue you’ve addressed so everyone can find it easily. If we need any clarification or more details, we’ll reach out.
Note: All stories are posted completely anonymous. No names. No identifiable info. Just real words from real men helping other men keep climbing.
