Quinn's Story
Quinn, a photographer and teacher, shares his experience confiding in a friend about depression and offers advice to other men.
"Realize that this isn’t a paid script; I am a real person, who had real depression, and I can’t emphasize how much better it feels to escape that darkness."
About Quinn Miller:
I am a High School teacher who is currently working on a photographic series that deals with depression amongst men. My hopes are to open this conversation and bring awareness to this topic that society shies away from.
WHAT WAS THE MAJOR TURNING POINT IN YOUR RECOVERY FROM DEPRESSION?
My turning point was actually a late summer night talking with my best friend. He noticed I was falling behind a little bit in life; I was able to open up to him about how I’ve been lying with myself for years, and that my happiness was just a facade. He’s the reason why I am here today, thank you CB!
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT REALLY HELPED?
Having a loved one to talk to
- Being able to talk to a trusted person really helps, as I know it was difficult for me to open up just to anyone.
Changing my diet
- I would come home everyday and just eat every type of junk food lying around the house. Acknowledging a change and promoting healthier eating habits (more veggies, less starches) really helped my physical and mental state.
Accepting myself
- I was content living a facade for almost 27 years. Breaking away from that and being able to be my most authentic self was such a breath of fresh air, and important step for me finding my fiancé.
Creating art
- Expression through art (writing, painting, photography, etc) is such a powerful tool for anyone, and I suggest that even if you feel you aren’t artistic, write down thoughts that are pestering you as a way to release them.
Getting a dog
- Having another living being that is just so excited to see you exist everyday really motivated me to wake up every morning.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER GUYS FIGHTING DEPRESSION?
Don’t allow modern day perceptions of manhood prevent you from reaching out for help. If you don’t feel comfortable with seeking a therapist, then seek out a loved one who will listen. Realize that this isn’t a paid script; I am a real person, who had real depression, and I can’t emphasize how much better it feels to escape that darkness. So many men can relate to you, so please, end the war that you’ve been fighting for so long.
– Quinn Miller, qmillerphotography, Lake Worth, FL, USA