My story began at age six when my father died by suicide. I grew up plagued by questions, anxiety and feelings of abandonment. Panic attacks were soon a part of daily life. Wearing a smile to hide the turmoil inside, I was a master of disguise. Eventually, I became clinically depressed during my senior year of high school. Being so despondent, I stopped attending school and nearly wasn’t allowed to graduate. I had lost the will to live. But, through the encouragement of my mother, I finally began a dialogue about my brain disease and started seeking the help I needed. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for her.
Over the next decade I became a human experiment: 26 different combinations of pharmaceuticals, cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic medicine and vitamin therapy as well as several very unhealthy approaches. This was one of the most tremulous periods of my life, and despite my efforts, I dropped out of college, lost numerous jobs and nearly ostracized all of my family and friends. At my lowest point, I was arrested and convicted on felony charges for malicious destruction of property. I spent the next three years paying restitution, performing community service and making biweekly trips to check in with my probation officer at the Cook County Jail in Chicago.
The lasting change finally came when I discovered mentorship and peer support. Through the guidance of those who had been there before and with the support of my family, I discovered a more sustainable approach to my mental health. In the process, I developed the 5 Bridges Wellness System, which is the basis for my wellness practice.
Out of these experiences and my desire to help others find their own path to wellness, I founded NoStigmas as a 501(c)(3) Non-profit in 2011. Over the past 5 years, our global community has grown to include nearly 50,000 individuals affected by suicide and mental illness. Our programming includes educational articles, awareness videos, peer support training and community member stories focused on empowering community members to become mental health advocates for themselves, others and the cause.
Jacob Moore is an speaker, wellness coach and the founder of NoStigmas, a social movement for mental health equality. For information and bookings, please visit jacobmoore.com
