10 Things You Didn't Know About AJ Lee
1. Her Mental Health Advocacy
Some of the most difficult to read yet utterly crucial parts of Lee's aforementioned book chronicle her learning to live with mental illness. Lee has been open about her struggles with bipolar disorder in her adult life, originally misdiagnosed as depression. Unable to cope with the internal strife, a 20-year-old Lee overdosed on a cocktail of painkillers and antidepressants, an episode she has since described as a suicide attempt.
A correct diagnosis soon followed the ordeal, and Lee was able to receive correct treatment. She today cites her condition as imbuing her with the bravery necessary to accomplish her goals, and is an active and vocal mental health advocate, having wrote extensively for organisations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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Mental health problems affect around a quarter of people every year. It's easy to feel frightened, confused, and even embarrassed about them, but in reality, this is a common human experience - and thankfully, help is available. If you feel you're experiencing a mental health crisis, there are lots of places you can turn to for support.