Melanie Oates: Triumph Over Trauma and Adversity
Even though I had said you know there's a stigma in the community, the more people talk about it, the more you can recognize that you're not the only one going through it, even if it's not the same situation.
Imagine enduring 17 years of sexual abuse, battling depression, and reaching a point where you feel life is no longer worth living. That was Melanie Oates' reality in 2007 when she attempted to take her own life. Fast forward to 2011, Melanie faced yet another set of challenges—giving birth to twins with disabilities and becoming a single mother. But Melanie’s story doesn’t end there; it’s just the beginning of a remarkable journey of resilience and transformation.
In this episode of 'Recovery Plus Podcast: F*ck Yesterday, Focus on Today', Melanie opens up about her darkest moments and the incredible tools she used to climb out of the abyss. Now a mental health advocate, president of a non-profit, and founder of an IT consulting company, Melanie dedicates her life to spreading hope and joy to those who need it most.
Her story is a testament to the power of community and the importance of talking openly about mental health. Melanie believes that by sharing our struggles, we can recognize that we’re not alone. Her journey underscores that even in our darkest times, there is always a glimmer of hope. Tune in to hear Melanie's powerful narrative and find inspiration in her words.