www.realliferealfaithmagazine.com
Page 14
Mental health and mental illness are topics that will remain relevant for years to come. Nearly 20 percent of the adult population suffers from mental illness, and that number steadily increases with each coming year.
Michelle Cuttino sat down with Dwon Moss Johnson, a Marine Corps Veteran, who suffers from Bipolar disorder and suicidal ideation. Cuttino’s goal was to shed some light on these menacing conditions, and seek advice from someone who suffers with both on a daily basis.
Michelle: Tell us a little about yourself.
Dwon: I am a Marine Corps Veteran. Lover of life, love and laughter. I am more than just an author, I’m a story teller. I currently am a co-author of two anthologies, The Ex-Chronicles and soon to be released, Baby Mama Dating Drama: No Gender Trashing Allowed. In the mid 2000’s, I started my own soy bath and beauty line, SassiSoulSoy. Everything I make is handmade by me. I am also a motivational speaker and mentor. I believe we were all put on earth to help others. Maya Angelou said it best, “You can’t go through life with catcher mitts on both hands. You have to be able to throw something back.”
Michelle: How has being a Marine Corps Veteran shaped you as a woman?
Dwon: Being a Female in the Marine Corps has definitely taught me discipline. Outside of a few negative experiences, it taught me how to be a team player. I learned how to get along with people I would normally not come into contact, or want to come in contact, with. The comradery being a Marine brings is what I miss most. What I’m really proud of, and will always be proud of, is I became a Marine when others said I wouldn’t make it. Intestinal fortitude and the Lord got me through the time I served. It lives on in me today.
Michelle: While in the service, you experienced military sexual trauma. Can you elaborate on what you went through?
Dwon: The military sexual trauma is one of those negative experiences I was talking about before. I experienced it once in Okinawa, Japan by my commanding officer. I was the only female Marine in my work place. During lunch duty one day, he asked me to come into his office.
MEntal Health Begins with ME
By: Michelle Cuttino