Photo taken by first-time contributor Julie, a California-based photographer who also works in film. She’s been battling anxiety and depression for over ten years, suffering from panic attacks in between. Julie was initially put on medication for depression in her early twenties, but it did not seem to help her and she eventually stopped taking it. During her most recent depressive episode she finally mustered up the courage to seek out help when she couldn’t keep going and is now being treated for bipolar II. She finally feels like she is being treated correctly, but still has many down days in between. Julie finds a lot of peace in creating art, especially photography. It takes her mind off of the pain and serves as a temporary distraction.
About this photo: “I took this photos when I was in a really dark place. I had just gone for a run which usually helps, but I just couldn’t shake it. I put on my headphones, grabbed my headlamp and headed outside. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to capture but I work a lot with long exposure and love the look. I let myself go and just expressed how I felt in that moment. I’m pleased with the results and look forward to doing more of this work.”
Find more from Julie at juliarajchel.com and Instagram @jghoulia or @s.chev_photo
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