Mental Illness is an unexplained black hole that can literally ruin a person's life. When Van Nyugen started noticing symptoms from her suicidal thoughts, her admission to a mental hospital, separation from friends and family, allowed her to find her passion and discover a voice through writing when perhaps others could not relate nor understand her. This new-found way of expressing herself led to her eventual recovery and why she feels so strongly against the negative stigma and stereotypes behind the mentally disabled.

Van Nguyen is a 17 year old writer that uses poetry to raise awareness about mental illness and social issues. If she ruled the world, education and mental health & sexual assault resources would be more accessible. There also wouldn't be a stigma that comes with seeking help and talking about these issues.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx