Photo taken by contributor Kendra Kantor, a 22-year-old woman from Chicago, Illinois. Kendra is a mother, writer and photographer who has suffered from mental health issues for most of her life. When she was 13, she started to recognize depression in herself and reached out for support. She started therapy and medication, and was eventually diagnosed with Panic Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. She loved photography as a young teen and after a break, which included dropping out of art school and becoming a mother, she is learning to love the camera again and use it as a wellness tool. Kendra has become a Wellness Mentor and Guide for creative women looking to embrace their self discovery and improve their mental health.

About this photo: “On the surface, this recent photograph I took is just of the setting sun on a tree in winter. But when I look at it, I see so much more. I see the layers, the light and dark, the shadow and the sun, the bare branches and dead leaves and promise of returning life. I see a connection to my mental illness, my depression and anxiety and to myself. I am filled with layers and I am light and dark and I am my illness and I am so much more.” 

Find more from Kendra at her website and blog.

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