Depression and anxiety are debilitating, exhausting, and often are a total thief of joy.

It can be hard to imagine a way out when you're stuck in a dark, draining cycle. For one of the personal stories we featured this year, I had the privilege of speaking with a woman who has battled both anxiety and depression since her time in public school.

We exchanged the usual pleasantries upon entry to the studio, but then she said, "I almost didn’t come... I’m having a bad day."

In that moment, I couldn’t help but admire her honesty. To which I responded, “I’m so glad you did.”

And so, we began our interview.

What followed was a deeply inspiring conversation. She shared her ongoing journey with mental health—the highs, the lows, and the constant fight to get out of bed every morning.

Yet, she does it, in large part, for her family.

The love and understanding they offer her make it possible to keep moving forward, even on the hardest days.

But here’s the remarkable part of her story: despite everything, she has built a business—her own family run music school—that brings joy and creativity to others. Through her work, she creates a safe, vibrant space for students of all ages to express themselves through music.

In a sense, she’s become the person she needed when she was young, struggling with her own mental health.

It’s a beautiful reminder of how creativity can be a lifeline. Engaging in creative activities—whether through music, art, or writing—offers a therapeutic outlet for emotional expression, a way to manage stress, and a tool for mindfulness. It can be incredibly healing for those facing anxiety and depression.

Creativity doesn’t require perfection; it simply asks for presence, for connection, and for a chance to release the emotions that can otherwise feel trapped inside.

Through creativity, we find a channel for joy, even when the world feels heavy.

When I spoke with her, I was able to reflect back to her something powerful: her work is not just a business.

It’s a gift to her community—a way for her to give others what she wished she had during her own difficult times. In the process, she’s finding her own healing, while spreading light and encouragement to everyone she touches.

Now, I ask you:

Do you know your true value?

Maybe it’s not always clear when you’re in the midst of struggle, but there is something uniquely valuable within you.

If you're facing challenges, know that you don’t have to have it all figured out. Taking small steps—resting, creating, sharing, connecting—can be powerful in ways you may not yet fully understand.

Just like this woman who shared her journey, you too can be a source of joy and healing for others, even while navigating your own battles.

Your story matters.

You matter.

-Ben