LifeStory

Emily Torchiana

I attempted suicide at ages 16 and 18. I was severely cyberbullied in high school on Facebook for about three years. Having an already low self-esteem and being very shy, I felt my life was worthless. During this time, my best friend was diagnosed with brain cancer and lost her battle at CHOP when I was a sophomore. After attempting my second time, I was hospitalized and diagnosed with PTSD from the bullying, depression, and social anxiety. When I went to college, I wanted to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. I decided to share my story on my campus, which then led to more opportunities to share my story at other schools and conferences around the country. I found that so many people related to my story in some way or another, and I got the inspiration to found a non-profit called The Invisible Illnesses. "Just because you can't see them, doesn't mean they're not there", because when you look at someone, you don't realize what they are struggling with. Each week, the website (theinvisibleillnesses.org) shares stories of those affected by mental illness to help others silently suffering know they are not alone. After just 4 months, the website received over 125,000 views, meaning that this was something people wanted to talk about. The donations go toward a mental health curriculum in schools for students, as well as mental health workshops for parents and teachers. I want to help those who feel alone as I once felt to know that it DOES get better and to keep fighting. I am by your side and am going to continue to do the same! Your life matters and this world would not be the same without you.
Emily Torchiana
Personal History
Emily Torchiana
Personal History