How to Be Happy
by David Burton
Description
My adolescence was a struggle. I was navigating having two brothers with Asperger’s Syndrome, trying to fix my parent’s marriage, summoning up the courage to ask my crush out on a date, wondering if I fancied girls or boys, and needed to figure out what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.
Not surprisingly, my intense desire to prove my independence and manliness landed me a very dark place. I suffered from severe clinical depression and anxiety disorder. At the height of my illness, I considered ending my own life.
This frank and funny talk is me sharing my own experience of growing up. It’s a tale of struggle and survival. Statistically, the most likely way a young person will pass away is by their own hand. This talk is a beacon for the weird kids, the lost ones, or simply those that want to know they’re not alone.
Topics Covered
Not surprisingly, my intense desire to prove my independence and manliness landed me a very dark place. I suffered from severe clinical depression and anxiety disorder. At the height of my illness, I considered ending my own life.
This frank and funny talk is me sharing my own experience of growing up. It’s a tale of struggle and survival. Statistically, the most likely way a young person will pass away is by their own hand. This talk is a beacon for the weird kids, the lost ones, or simply those that want to know they’re not alone.
Topics Covered
- Personal identity
- Living with disabilities
- Coping with academic pressures
- Navigating sexual confusion and romantic relationships
- Recovering from depression and anxiety
- Forgiveness and personal development
Details
Audience
Senior Secondary Students (version for parents and teachers also available.)
Duration
50 - 60 minutes
Requirements
For audiences larger than forty, a microphone will be required.