Open Letter to Those With Mental Illness

{Note from WWM: As someone who struggles with my own mental illnesses, which have landed me in the hospital twice, this hit so close to home. Rachel absolutely nails it. I know it may look and seem long, but I promise this is worth the read. Please share this.
So often we think we’re alone, that no one else will or can understand. But there are others who do understand. We know exactly what it feels like. And it’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to cry. It doesn’t make you weak.
Rachel’s post is below.}

(Originally posted on Rachel’s blog – reposted with her permission.)

Dear Person With Mental Illness,

You are not a monster. You are a valuable, unique, wonderful human being who deserves everything grand that this life has to offer. Come out of the shadows and stand proudly in who you are.

You are