Sharing it ALL - My Life & Mental Health Story Overcoming MULTIPLE 'life-long' health diagnoses to true HEALTH, HEALING, & PURPOSE | EP 2

#2 Sharing it ALL - My Life & Mental Health Story: Overcoming MULTIPLE 'live-long' health diagnoses to true HEALTH & HEALING

In this deeply personal episode, Mackenzie Rose Gorman opens up about her life journey and the mental health challenges she faced along the way. From her early love for nature and aspirations to become a scientist, through the trials of adolescence, to the traumatic events that shaped her young adult life and awakened her spirituality, Mackenzie shares the intricate tapestry of experiences that led her to where she is today.

**Timestamps:**
- [00:00:00] Introduction to the episode
- [00:01:00] The power of storytelling and sharing our experiences
- [00:02:00] Mackenzie's early life and her Thanksgiving birthday significance
- [00:03:00] Nature vs. nurture and Mackenzie's innate characteristics
- [00:04:00] Early academic and athletic interests
- [00:05:00] Shifts in perspective during middle school and the onset of childhood trauma
- [00:06:00] Mackenzie’s determination to study biology from a young age
- [00:07:00] High school achievements and the start of mental health challenges
- [00:08:00] The complexity of social interactions and the impact on Mackenzie's mental state
- [00:09:00] Existential questions and the search for life’s meaning
- [00:10:00] Coping with depression and anxiety in adolescence
- [00:11:00] Self-medication with weed and the journey through high school
- [00:12:00] The transition to college life and continued struggles with mental health
- [00:13:00] The traumatic event at UCSB and its profound effect on Mackenzie
- [00:14:00] The challenge of studying abroad in New Zealand amidst grief
- [00:15:00] Mackenzie's reflections on therapy and her diagnosis of depression

**Key Points Discussed:**
- The importance of gratitude and connection in Mackenzie's life
- The role of nature and curiosity in shaping her early years
- The challenges of navigating social dynamics and personal trauma
- The onset and misinterpretation of depression during adolescence
- The coping mechanisms developed in response to mental health struggles
- The impact of a mass shooting at UCSB on Mackenzie's life
- The complexities of processing grief while embarking on a study abroad program

**Mackenzie's Insights:**
- Storytelling as a foundational element of human connection
- The recognition of her own consciousness and the existential questions it raised
- The misconception that depression is synonymous with sadness
- The personal growth and understanding that came from experiencing love and loss

Mackenzie's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of healing. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to believe in the possibility of overcoming their own challenges and achieving greater emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

**Connect with Mackenzie HERE & Follow the Pod HERE 

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**Disclaimer:**
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.