Kate, age 21, grew up with a father who had untreated depression, and an unloving stepmother. When young, she realized she was gay and engaged briefly in self-harming. After some brief counseling Kate has used journaling to heal her depression.

Mara (age 18) was self-harming from a very young age and was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at age 14. Therapy and support from her father and friends helped in high school. In college she started taking medication and studying Buddhism.

Sierra Rose's depression began in early adolescence, when she lived in a chaotic environment, moved frequently, and had some difficult family relationships. She also struggles with self-harming, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Her boyfriend is a huge source of support, and her cats bring her joy and keep her going in hard times.