At FRANK BERLIN, we’re all about creating spaces where honest conversations about mental health can thrive. Sharing stories is such a powerful way to connect and break down stigmas. That’s why we’re excited to share this interview with Elena Solonnikov, a poet and writer with a knack for turning her thoughts and experiences into something deeply relatable and meaningful.

Uncertainty can feel overwhelming, leaving us questioning the future and doubting ourselves. A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that uncertainty triggers stress responses in the brain similar to physical threats, making us crave control and stability. But life doesn’t come with a manual, and often, our plans are subject to forces beyond our control.

Winter follows and for some of us, the change of seasons triggers a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). According to Hopkins Medicine website, “It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may set off a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression.” SAD may be a hindrance in our daily lives and alters the way we think and feel.

Throughout our lives we go through different changes and emotions, consequently, some of these situations cause us to overthink. It’s as if our minds are overflowing with noise and these thoughts look for a way out, a way to spill over. We may end up desperately looking for peace of mind. There are many solutions for this common problem but for many people, the solution is: writing.

These days, many influencers, content creators and artists openly discuss mental health and well-being on their platforms. But the big question is: Can these online spaces actually help prevent something as serious as suicide? Suicide is a significant global health issue, with over 700.000 lives lost every year, according to the World Health Organization. Each of these tragedies has a ripple effect, impacting families, friends, and entire communities.

When I look back at how society viewed mental health in the 1900s, I realize just how much things have changed. Back then, psychology and therapy were seen as something to be ashamed of, with many people regarding psychological struggles as a sign of weakness. But even when therapy was considered, it was often in secret. There was little understanding of the importance of addressing mental health issues openly, and this affected generations of families—including mine.