Schtick has been adopted in my personal life as my mental health mascot. He was created from an old comic strip I used to write known as “the Adventures of Joe Stickfigure” back in Elementary School into Sophomore year of High School. It was terribly corny, but I enjoyed it. So “Schtick” - which is a play on the word Stick combined with the word Shtick (which is defined as a gimmick) - came to life and boom; welcome to the world Schtick! He was brought to life to provide a moment of meaning. When I see Schtick, I see my youth, my life, my struggles and my brighter days; something I hope all of you will be able to find from him when a reminder is needed that sometimes all you have to do is smile.
As an individual who suffers from Mental Illness, Schtick has been deemed the face of fight. I have dealt with bullying as a child from all avenues which turned into depression and constant fear leading to anxiety. I've spent a lifetime in battle within myself. So, know that there is someone out here just like you. And there is a hope.
Mental Illness, including but not limited to PTSD, Bi-Polar disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia; etc. - is a battle that majority of the population struggle with. For many of us that do suffer from some form of it, our hobby is an amazing escape in helping cope when things are not perfect. I myself was diagnosed as bi-polar. I also suffer from depression and PTSD. However, this does not stop me from living life. Aside from family and friends, the community of collectors has truly helped when the light has gone out and it was absolute darkness. And for that, I thank you.
Schtick is alive and full of life.
Similar to the semi-colon tattoo, I would love our community to utilize Schtick when required and to show him off proudly as well. Let him be the poster boy to the smile you need.
Schtick is:
- Depression Destroyer!
- Anxiety Attacker
- Fun Freak
- The warrior deep down inside of all of us!
Let's start the journey: DAY 1
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