I hate explaining my mental health conditions to people. That might seem weird since I spend so much of my time and energy here talking about that very subject. I am willing, often happy, to explore my mental health. Explaining my conditions and struggles to others is not an exercise in improving my state of mind. It is a recitation of justifiers and simplified terms to make the listener comfortable without unveiling myself as a complete lunatic. 

Yes, as we have talked more openly about mental health these conversations have become easier and more productive. The vast majority of folks are loving, and want to help. But, even our most ardent supporters will  waiver at least a bit in the face of these conditions. 

Analogies are a tool that I use daily to explain a feeling, teach a lesson or address a problem. They're always bouncing in my brain. Parallel ideas with common purpose can feel a bit like magic. Using art, music, and cinema is another way I have used analogies and metaphors to carve out an identity and viewpoint. 

This week’s podcast is a combination of all of those elements. It’s built around an essay I published at the beginning of April using a scene from Jaws to better explain my struggles with depression and anxiety. Talking about my health can be exhausting, self-indulgent, and even counter-productive. Stories like this one seem like the best way I can find to explore my own mental health while also allowing the reader/listener to explore it with me. 

Here is how I, once again, used a piece of art to better understand my own self. It is also one of the best ways I have found to help you understand my struggle and may be yours as well. 

Cheers,Matty C

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