More Than Meets the Eye: Rachel
Photos and Writing by Yasmeen Wafai
For this project I wanted to show people that there is more than meets the eye to individuals with mental health issues. People often visualize mental health as this completely debilitating thing that prevents people from living their lives, but that is not always the case. Everyone has their days and their moments and their battles, but beneath it all, they are still human. A Google search of depression or anxiety shows dark images of sad, frightened people. I wanted to show the other side of mental health that lets viewers know people with mental health issues are more than their disorders. I chose to feature one of my best friends, Rachel, as my subject. She has suffered from severe depression and anxiety for most of her life and I wanted to show people how she overcomes her struggles and enjoys life.
Rachel and her puppy Daisy. Rachel very recently got Daisy and she has been an amazing addition to her life. Rachel already has so much love for her and expressed interest in certifying her as a service dog when Daisy is a little older.
Rachel doing yoga. Rachel enjoys yoga and practices it when she has the chance as it allows her to decompress and take care of herself.
Rachel has been a vegetarian for over a year now and one of her favorite foods to eat are zucchini chips. They make her happy every time they come to the table.
Rachel at one of her favorite places to eat. She loves drinking coffee, as well as making it, and finds joy in both.
Rachel with her guinea pig Patrick. Patrick came into Rachel's life when she was going through a really rough time. He became sort of like a therapy animal for Rachel and brings her a lot of happiness and comfort.
Rachel driving on one of her favorite roads. Driving allows Rachel to relax and she enjoys going on road trips, especially if the road leads to a campground or the mountains.
A portrait of Rachel blowing smoke. Rachel has been smoking marijuana recreationally for a few years now and it has helped her immensely. Marijuana allows her depression, anxiety, sleeping habits and more to be more manageable.
Rachel pointing at some of the places she camped at when she worked at Yellowstone National Park a couple of summers ago. It was one of the best experiences of her life and she will always hold that time and the park close to her heart.
Rachel taking some time to literally stop and smell the roses. Nature is very important to Rachel and the more she is in it, the better. When she can't venture out for a camping trip or hike, she likes to come to Point Defiance Park in Tacoma where she can choose from flower gardens, beaches and trails to spend time in.
Music has always been a big part of Rachel's life. She started out performing in musicals and now enjoys writing and composing her own music and lyrics. Music allows Rachel to express herself and escape her day-to-day struggles.