My struggle with mental health (Eating Disorder and Food Addiction) has been a long and difficult one. I've shared my story with many, and have tried to be brutally honest about my recovery and every setback along the way.  I have also struggled with PTSD after a sexual assault which took place in my early twenties. 

My Mental Illness has presented in the following ways:
-Depression
-Negative Body Image
-Weight Gain
-Addictions
-PTSD

I'm not the only person in my life who has been touched by mental illness. My friends and family have all been affected in some way, whether through friends/family or their own personal struggle. I have known and loved people who have attempted (and succeeded with) suicide, struggled with body dysmorphia, been hospitalized with (and eventually passed away from)  addictions related diseases, and so much more. 

There are also still incredibly damaging stigmas attached to mental illness. These 'invisible' illnesses need to be researched and reported on, so they can be better understood. Men are especially at risk, and are far more likely to commit suicide. We change this by opening up the conversation, and getting research funded. 

Why am I shaving my head?
Because my mental health struggle has been attached to body image for as long as I can remember. Shaving my head is a way to show myself and others that your outsides are not a reflection of the person you are on the inside. Your physical body doesn't change who you are.

THIS is why I have chosen to support the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation:

• Since 1987, the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has awarded more than $365 million to fund more than 5,000 grants to more than 4,000 scientists around the world.

• The mission of the Foundation is to alleviate the suffering caused by mental illness by awarding grants that will lead to advances and breakthroughs in scientific research.

• 100% of donations for research are invested directly into research grants thanks to the generosity of two family foundations that underwrite operational expenses at the Foundation.

• The funding model of the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation encourages new and innovative research in that we are able to support new ideas from bottom up generated by scientists.

• The Foundation only funds scientists whose research is reviewed and recommended by a world-renowned Scientific Council including Nobel Prize winners and chairs of psychiatric departments.

• Learn more about the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation.