From Then to Now, Eric Seubert

When Eric Seubert talks about his life, he doesn't focus on the struggles – he celebrates the journey of healing. His story is a powerful reminder that mental health challenges don't define us, but how we respond to them can transform our entire lives.

Growing up in a small Wisconsin town wasn't easy for Eric. He experienced significant bullying and social challenges that contributed to his anxiety and depression. "People would kick you when you're down," he recalls, describing a community environment that often felt harsh and unforgiving. These early experiences deeply impacted his self-esteem, leaving him feeling isolated and struggling with negative self-talk.

The turning point came in 2011 when Eric received a mental health diagnosis. But instead of seeing this as a setback, he viewed it as an opportunity. "A diagnosis is not an awful thing," Eric explains. "It's a chance to understand myself and learn how to move forward." His perspective is very inspiring– transforming what many might see as a limitation into a pathway for growth.

One of Eric's most powerful strategies has been practicing gratitude. Every morning, within the first moments of waking, he consciously thinks about what he's thankful for. "Thank you, I can breathe. Thank you, I'm healthy," he shares. This simple practice has been transformative, helping him shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling empowered.

Success, for Eric, isn't about grand achievements but about recognizing and celebrating small victories. Making the bed, eating a meal, going to work – these are all successes worth acknowledging. "Count every success," he advises. "Embrace them and build upon them." This approach helps create momentum, turning small positive actions into significant life changes.

Letting go of guilt has been another crucial part of Eric's journey. With the help of a supportive therapist, he learned to stop punishing himself for past mistakes. "Why would I feel guilty for something I can't change?" he asks. My time machine is broken, and I can't find parts." Instead, he focuses on what he can do now, in the present moment.

Physical health has also played a significant role in Eric's recovery. Despite being diagnosed with early-onset arthritis, he refused to become inactive. Told he might be in a wheelchair by 40, Eric instead chose to stay moving, proving that our responses to challenges can dramatically alter our outcomes.

The Gathering Place became a crucial support system for Eric. Walking in on December 28, 2011, he found a community where people understood his experiences. The simple phrase "me too" became powerful – helping him realize he wasn't alone in his struggles.

Eric's journey as a Certified Peer Specialist is driven by a profound sense of purpose. Having been given what he calls a "second chance," he's committed to helping others navigate their own mental health challenges and get through their obstacles.

His advice for anyone struggling is compassionate and practical: Start with gratitude, recognize your successes (no matter how small), and be kind to yourself. "Positive thinking isn't about ignoring difficulties," he says, "it's about seeing beyond them."

What makes Eric's story truly inspiring is his refusal to be defined by his challenges. He's transformed pain into purpose, turning personal struggles into a mission of hope and support for others. His message is clear: Recovery is possible, and every person has the strength within them to heal.

For those feeling stuck or overwhelmed, Eric's journey offers a beacon of hope. Mental health recovery isn't a linear path, but a continuous process of growth, self-discovery, and compassion. By embracing our vulnerabilities and celebrating our strengths, we can create meaningful, fulfilling lives.

As Eric often says, "There's nothing you can't overcome if you approach it with gratitude and a positive mindset." His story reminds us that hope is not just a concept – it's a daily practice, a choice we make moment by moment.