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As we enter Mental Health Awareness month, one author and artist is sharing her coming-of-age story through the lenses of mental illness, disability and steadfast determination. Long Island native Ruth Poniarski\u2019s first book, Journey of the Self: Memoir of an Artist, published by Charlotte, North Carolina-based Warren Publishing, is a stunning and unflinchingly-honest memoir that challenges the stigmas placed on mental illness. The book has received glowing reviews, including a Kirkus Star review.

It started as a college prank; a friend offered Ruth Poniarski a brownie that, unbeknownst to her, was laced with angel dust. What resulted was a debilitating accident, and the first of many mental breakdowns that spiraled into diagnoses of psychosis, schizophrenia, severe anxiety and bipolar disorder.

For years, Poniarski struggled to cope with her new reality as she undertook a rigorous architectural program, sought out new friends (and the perfect mate) and battled through the depths of mental illness. Her journey led her in all directions as she sought comfort, solace, stability and love.

Now an accomplished artist, Poniarski considers her memoir to be a portrait of sorts.

\u201cThis book, like many of my paintings, is about introspection,\u201d she says. \u201cSo many of us, particularly when we\u2019re young, seek definition through labels or through what others think of us. It\u2019s so easy to say, \u2018I have bipolar disorder, therefore, X,\u2019 or, \u2018So and so doesn\u2019t love me the way I love him, therefore, Y.\u2019 But none of that is who we truly are.\u201d

The release of Poniarski\u2019s memoir is particularly timely in light of the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing orders.

\u201cA lot of people are stuck at home right now. This kind of isolation forces a person to examine themselves; what makes them unique beyond who they are to society,\u201d says Poniarski. \u201cThat kind of self-reflection allows us to become more available to others. You have to know yourself first.

\u201cSo, who am I?\u201d Poniarski laughs. \u201cWell \u2026 you\u2019ll just have to read the book!\u201d

For more information about Ruth Poniarski or her book, please visit: ruthponiarski.com.

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Ash Brown is a gifted American producer, blogger, speaker, media personality and event emcee. The blog on AshSaidit.com showcases exclusive event invites, product reviews and so much more. Her motivational podcast "Ash Said It Daily" is available on major media platforms such as iTunes, iHeart Radio & Google Play. This program has over half a million streams worldwide. She uses these mediums to motivate & encourage her audience in the most powerful way. She keeps it real!

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