Introduction to Jenny Capper, Author of ‘Mental Health for the Digital Generation’

My name is Jenny Capper, and I am now co-authoring Mental Health for the Digital Generation. I am so honored to be writing for HealthyPlace. I have been struggling with major depression and anxiety for 12 years. It is my hope that sharing my experience with mental illness will help you or your loved one feel understood and not alone.

Jenny Capper’s Battle with Depression and Anxiety

After being diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 16, I tried therapy and many different medications before starting electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in August 2013 at the age of 23. My symptoms lessened, and I was able to function for the most part. As settings were adjusted, things began to get better gradually. Over the course of two-and-a-half years, I had dozens of treatments.

An insurance change forced me to switch to a new ECT doctor in late 2015. He wanted to start over and create his own settings for me. I was not willing to do that. The ECT had brought me out of a horrible place, but I knew that I needed to try something else. I started transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in early 2016, and after eight weeks, my depression had significantly subsided. I am currently taking three medications, but I am no longer receiving TMS treatment.

Jenny Capper and Mental Health

When I started ECT, there were very few personal accounts of modern ECT experiences available. I started a YouTube channel to document my journey and let others follow along as well. Four years later, it has grown into a community of people who share their experiences with a variety of treatments and strategies to address different symptoms. It has been the most amazing experience to interact with people from all over the world, all of us united in the fight against mental illness.

Many people believe that once the treatment or medication “works,” you are cured. I have learned this is not the case. The struggle with depression and anxiety is still a daily battle. By learning from others’ experiences and continuing to research mental health resources, I have found ways of coping that make life less stressful and more joyful. These illnesses will always be there. I am determined not to let them stop me from living my best life.

What Jenny Capper Will Bring to ‘Mental Health for the Digital Generation’

My contributions to this Mental Health for the Digital Generation will cover a wide range of topics about mental health, but all my articles will be based on personal experiences and insights I have gained throughout my battle with depression and anxiety. I am excited to join this community and have the chance to interact with all of you. Whether you struggle with mental illness or love someone who does, we must come together to support one another. I hope that what I have to say will help some of you, and I look forward to learning from you as well.