Stories4Hope

About Stories4Hope

Stories4Hope is a collection of real and inspiring stories about mental wellness and recovery.

As part of the Suspenders4Hope® campaign from Wichita State University, Stories4Hope highlights individuals with mental illness who have found hope and healing within their lives. Stories can be told through written articles or video. Anyone is welcome to participate.

*Please be aware that the stories discuss mental health themes, including trauma and suicide.

Featured Stories

Alison

Read about Alison’s Story4Hope and mental health journey of coping and healing after losing a friend from suicide.

Amber

Learn about Amber’s inspirational Story4Hope around substance abuse and how she keeps busy and healthy with exercise.

Dr. Aaron Austin

Learn about Dr. Aaron Austin’s Story4Hope. Dr. Austin is the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs at WSU.

Randy

Listen to Randy talk about his struggles with depression while balancing class work, and more as a student athlete.

Alicia, Andrea, and Jessica

Listen to these stories of strength told by Alicia, Andrea, and Jessica.

John

Through music, John learned how to cope with suicidal thoughts and personal struggles after losing a family member.

Jim

Jim leads the Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group in Wichita, KS. Jim shares the story of his wife’s battle with mental illness.

Lenny

Listen to Lenny’s story of finding support and healing during times of struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts.

Robert wearing a Suspenders tee and smiling

Robert

Robert shares his journey from alcoholism to recovery. He found hope through honesty and by asking help when he most needed it.

Shocker Athletics

Kevin Saal, Director of WSU Athletics, talks about the importance of providing athletes with mental health support and resources.

Want to share your Story4Hope?

Celebrating stories of struggle and resiliency helps us heal. If you would like to share your story of mental wellness and recovery, we would love to hear it.

Feel free to submit your story idea by clicking the button below. After you submit the form, someone from Suspenders4Hope® will reach out with more information. Thank you for your willingness to share and show others that hope is possible.

Wichita State University singing Please Stay with the direction of Dr. Tom Wine