Help Ashlyn raise money

This will be the 2nd year participating in this event and throughout this event, you will hear other's stories but right now, I would like to tell mine.

I did not get my start in the mental health field solely from school/work. I was led to where I am today in life from my own experience and life struggles. I have been battling with depression and anxiety from a young age after losing my brother, as well as trauma/PTSD from life and work situations. I struggled a lot while growing up, especially in high school. I got bullied and tried fitting in with those around me. I struggled with suicidal ideation due to the bullying and constant feeling of "I need to fit in. I am not good enough." 

I started to want to help others around my senior year of high school. I was deciding on what I wanted to go to school for and Psychology was calling my name. I worked at an elementary school, DCFS, and now Centerstone. Each work experience led me to gaining the knowledge, training, and compassion to helping those around me. I am now in graduate school obtaining my master's in social work so I can someday have my own practice. I would not be where I am today if it was not for the support from family and friends. 

Help me raise awareness for suicide prevention by donating. There is help and resources available. You are not alone.

I will be running for my family and friends who struggled with mental health in their lifetime and left too soon.