MHI: AN EXCERPT FROM TBI OR CTE: WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH ME? by Mark Tullius

Trigger Warning: This piece addresses mental health

The HWA is pleased to launch its Mental Health Initiative, a coordinated roll-out of events, resources, and activities intended to promote positive mental health, foster the concept of hope, and challenge the stigma of mental illness in the horror genre. The initiative, run by the organization’s Wellness Committee, launches in June, and includes the following blog posts from Of Horror and Hope, a downloadable anthology of poems, flash fiction, and personal reflections on mental health by HWA members.

An Excerpt from TBI or CTE: What the Hell is Wrong with Me?
Mark Tullius

Recognize all the positive coping mechanisms that you already have and become aware of the negative ones you can improve. Yoga, breathing, jiu jitsu, cannabis, talking with friends, writing, and doing a podcast—these were all things I did prior to this research that were keeping me somewhat sane without me realizing it.

Be kind to yourself for your past mistakes and move forward while taking responsibility for slipups and asking those you hurt for forgiveness. Trust others, confide in them, and try not to worry about being a burden or scaring them.

Live each day the very best you can. Keep positive. Keep going. This might be the toughest struggle you ever face but get after it. Be proactive. Accept help. Make this life as great as possible.

Even if I do develop CTE or another form of dementia, I’ve made my peace with that. If it occurs, I will intensify my coping mechanisms and make the most of it. But if all that truly matters is the present moment, both the past and future don’t matter. Why be upset about something that may never happen? All I must strive for is a good day today, in this moment. If your day is filled with good moments, then that’s a good day. If your life is full of good days, then that’s a good life.

If you gained something from this book, I hope you will help spread the word and bring awareness. You may not know who in your life feels like something is off but cannot express what it is. Don’t be embarrassed by your personal struggles because the person right next to you may be silently fighting similar demons. Make the world a better place by sharing your story.