Julius' Story
Julius shares how fully stepping into the therapeutic process allowed him to commit to healing and find a renewed sense of hope.
"For the first time, I felt a deep desire to be better, to heal my own mind."
About Julius:
My name is Julius Stukes Jr, and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. I’m a Shaw University graduate and a member of Community Board 18 here in Brooklyn. I am a filmmaker and an AI consultant who believes in pushing the narrative that therapy is a life-changing experience. I am currently promoting my short film, “The Way the Rain Pours”, a call-to-action social drama. Its purpose is to influence ALL men to talk and attend therapy.
What was the major turning point in your mental health recovery?
It wasn’t until I truly hit rock bottom that the path to healing finally opened up for me. For years, people had told me about therapy, but it was always a conversation I couldn’t fully step into. The words and the understanding of therapy, in that moment, never truly landed. But from that lowest point, something shifted. I made the decision to go, and once I was there, I found within myself the will to actually do the work.
For the first time, I felt a deep desire to be better, to heal my own mind. As I committed to the process, everything was put into a new perspective. Life, which had felt so confusing, finally began to make sense. I learned that I didn’t have to be swept away by my feelings anymore. I could finally see my emotions, understand them, regulate them, and ultimately, accept them as part of me. I learned how to guide myself through the storm, not just be lost in it.
What are some things that really helped?
Therapy
- My entire relationship with therapy was transformed through the simple act of learning. It was the anchor that helped me stay when things were difficult and the lens that helped me finally understand what the process was all about. As my understanding grew, therapy shifted from a obligation to enjoyment and discovery.
Meditation
- I began a quiet journey inward. I started to meditate more and learned how to simply be still. In that stillness, I found peace. It was a realization that the peace of my own mind and the calm within my own body were not just feelings, but the very foundation of my strength. This inner peace is what gives me the power to face the world, and to continue moving forward.
Community
- I found an unexpected and powerful source of hope in community. I began to talk with therapists and with other people who were also on this journey. Hearing their stories and sharing my theories created a connection. The conversations didn’t just make me feel less alone; they gave me clarity on how I deserved to be treated, most importantly, by myself.
What advice would you give to other guys fighting mental health challenges?
Know that it’s okay, it gets better and this is not what defines you. There are many many people out here who are willing to help you, willing to walk with you, and willing to assist you. Don’t be afraid to speak up, and get the help that you need. Your voice is important. Your voice matters. We can’t help, if we can’t hear you.
-Filmmaker Julius Stukes Jr., thewaytherainpours.com, Brooklyn, NY, USA