'The happiest dude on the planet' - that's how a lot of people see Stefan when they meet him for the first time. But behind that beaming smile is a story of pain, struggle and torment. When I asked Stefan to sit down with me and share his story about addiction and mental health, I had no idea what I was going to get because this was the first time he was taking the leap and opening up about his past.
Stefan had been diagnosed with extreme anxiety at the age of 15, then by the age of 17 found himself severely abusing drugs and substances. In his early 20's he was witnessing the loss of some of his closest friends due to drug addiction and suicide. Stefan's trauma became the catalyst for the story he's currently writing now.
Through meditation, yoga and his love for music, he found ways to cope with the part of him that he felt like he would never move past.
The smile tells the story of suffering and an internal battle that Stefan still faces every single day. The reason behind him wanting to share his story now is to show others that no matter what it is they're going through, they're not broken like he once believed he was.
We all have a story to tell and our stories no matter how dark they may seem or feel, have the power to create hope and light in someone else's life.
I really hope you enjoy this episode because it's the most inspiring conversation I have ever had with someone.
FOR HELP:
Blue Knot Foundation Helpline
beyondblue
eheadspace
Kids Helpline
MensLine Australia
Suicide Call Back Service
CONNECT WITH STEFAN: @stefanwest_
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And lastly, thanks for being here :)