Andrea Schaeffer: Unmasking Pain and Finding Hope
When I see someone else who's maybe kind of at the beginning of that, I just honestly I just want to grab them and just like, hold them into a big ball of sunshine.
Ever felt like you were wearing a mask to hide your true feelings? In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', Andrea Schaeffer opens up about the masks she wore to cope with childhood sadness, the trauma of being raped at 16, and the struggles of postpartum depression. Hosted by comedian Paul Gilmartin, this conversation dives deep into Andrea's journey through some of life's toughest battles.
She talks candidly about her experiences with high-functioning autism, anorexia, and borderline personality disorder, painting a vivid picture of what it's like to live with these challenges. Andrea doesn't shy away from discussing the darker moments, like how she would bruise herself out of frustration or how she felt utterly disgusting after her assault. Yet, amidst the pain, there's a thread of resilience. Andrea found solace in support groups and the healthcare system, which she credits with saving her life.
She explains how expressing her emotions and sharing her story helped lighten her burden, even if just a little. If you're looking for a raw and honest account of mental health struggles and the power of support, Andrea's story is a must-listen. It's a testament to the strength of vulnerability and the importance of finding your voice, no matter how hard it may seem.