Meet columnist Whit Downing

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Leah Jamison

Graphic by Leah Jamison

Hello everyone and welcome to Wednesday’s with Whit.

I’m glad you are here!

Created with you in mind, Wednesday’s with Whit will be a place for all things mental health ­‑-whether it be information about a mental health diagnosis, a spotlight on an individual who has their own lived experience, a story focused on recovery, or anything in between, my desire for you is that you’d feel hopeful and encouraged.

Why?

Because I get it. As a 24-year-old autistic college student diagnosed with both depression and anxiety, I understand firsthand the challenges that come along with having a mental health condition. I know how excruciating the process can be to overcome the unique barriers that we face, even the barriers that seem almost impossible to defeat.

Sometimes we need a pick-me-up. We need to hear from someone that things can get better. I want people to know that it is okay to be yourself, to make mistakes, to not be perfect, and to do what is best for you! 😊

Before I end for today, and since this is the first publication of Wednesdays with Whit, I’d like to tell you a few things about me.

  • I love Rubik’s cubes.
  • I have four brothers and two sisters. Family is very important to me!
  • I enjoy watching the Temple Grandin movie over and over. If you haven’t seen it, you should check it out.
  • I play the flute for fun.
  • I have a cat named Mr. Rubik Cube Downing! I call him RC for short.

Well, there you have it, folks. I look forward to seeing where this Wednesdays with Whit journey will take us.

Thank you for reading, and be sure to check back here next week!