Turning Struggles into Art: My Journey as an Artist with Mental Illness

The Story Behind My Art

For as long as I can remember, art has been my sanctuary. Living with mental illness comes with its challenges—focus can be elusive, and the world often feels overwhelming. But art? Art is where I come alive. It’s where I can breathe, escape, and create something that’s mine.

Like many others, I wanted to pursue a career that fuels my energy, not drains it. I struggled with jobs that required me to focus on things I didn’t enjoy or didn’t find meaningful. That’s why I turned to freelancing as an artist—hoping to build a life where I could work on projects that excited me. I didn’t just want a side hustle; I wanted a stable creative career that would allow me to stand on my own feet.

But the reality is, it’s hard. Really hard.

The Frustration of Finding My Path

It’s been a year now, and I’ll be honest—the journey has been anything but smooth. Finding clients who truly align with your vision feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. Rejection stings, and the process can feel degrading. Sometimes, I question whether I’m doing enough or if I’ll ever get to where I want to be.

And yet, I keep creating. I keep trying. Because art isn’t just work to me—it’s life.

I create to escape. To find joy. To explore thoughts and emotions that I can’t always put into words. My art is fun, thought-provoking, and relatable—a way for me to connect with others who might feel alone in their struggles. It’s my way of saying, “You’re not alone. I see you.”

Art and Mental Illness: A Message of Hope

If there’s one thing I want you to take away from my story, it’s this: mental illness does not define us. It doesn’t have to limit what we can achieve.

Yes, we might have to work harder than others. Yes, there will be days where it feels impossible to keep going. But we are capable of so much more than we realize. I’m proof of that. I’m still here, creating, trying, and refusing to give up—even when it feels like the odds are stacked against me.

If I can try, so can you.

Why I Create

I make art for people who want something meaningful. Whether it’s a fun illustration to make you laugh or a thought-provoking design that makes you think, I want my art to bring connection and comfort. My work is for anyone who feels misunderstood, unseen, or just needs a little reminder that they matter.

To me, art is more than a creative outlet—it’s a bridge that connects us.

Let’s Create Together

If you’re someone who loves original, relatable, and thought-provoking art, I invite you to explore my store. Every print, design, and creation is a piece of my story—a story I hope you can see yourself in, too.

For anyone battling their own mental struggles, know this: you are not alone. You are seen, you are valued, and you will find your way.

Keep creating, keep trying, and keep believing in yourself. I’ll be right here, doing the same.

Here is my website / Portfolio - https://www.shaneinvasion.art
Here is my Art Store - https://shaneinvasion.store