One of my favorite psychologists is Dr. Deborah Serani. She is quite the mover and shaker in the field of psychology. She’s a professor, a clinician, an author – and she has also struggled with depression since childhood. Dr. Serani recently gave a TedX Talk at Adelphi University. Check it out:

Dr. Serani’s talk is incredibly moving. She gives a touching description of what it’s like to be depressed as a child. And also a very detailed account of her suicide attempt as a very young woman. Dr. Serani offers expertise on how to best manage mental illness, including “consistency, consistency, consistency” when it comes to psychotherapy and medication. I also appreciated the way she describes how self-care plays a part in managing her mental illness, including vigorously guarding her sleep, and being selective in who and what she lets into her life.

Dr. Serani concludes her powerful talk by offering words of encouragement to those suffering (and treating) mental illness:

“There is hope, there is healing.”