B.R.O.K.E.N: Beyond Repair Often Knowing Everlasting Nothingness in Bloomington, MN

TRIGGER WARNING This poetry was put together to share what mental health may look like for some. Jacqueline Hayes has found that social media/society doesn't really expose mental health for what it is: Dark, lonely, scary, distorted, confusing, gruesome, and exhausting. Her poetry is a manifestation of how her mental health has controlled her life and consumed her very being. How it created a safe space while debilitating her from growing and moving forward. Although quite dark, Jacqueline's poetry sheds light on the experience of mental health and provides insight into what it may be like to suffer from one's own thoughts and emotions. Jacqueline decided to share her darkness with those who live with mental health illnesses, work with individuals with mental illnesses, and family or friends who love someone with a mental illness. It can be difficult to put emotions into words, thus, making it even more difficult to interpret, understand, and accept. Her hope is that this book will help others who struggle with mental health illnesses, and those supporting others who struggle to identify their emotions and explore their perceptions of themselves, while gaining a better understanding of where their emotions stem from. This is the start of the healing process. Despite her struggle with mental health, she is grateful for her experiences. Jacqueline's experiences have molded her into who she is today: a resilient, empathic survivor; and, she will continue to have courage and strength within her self to become who she wants to be