Hi KYB fans, Cory here. A lot of great things are underway in the King Youngblood world! We changed our name, read more about that here. We also had a fantastic show at Neumos in Seattle for the Emerald City Gala, towards the end of 2019, thank you for those who came out to show their support. We have also been working hard on our organization, Hold Your Crown, which focuses on youth mental health. With all these fantastic things happening, I wanted to shed some light on my recent experience with my bipolar disorder and specifically seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
By definition, SAD is depression associated with late autumn and winter and thought to be caused by a lack of light. Having experienced SAD every year for many years, I can say it feels like so much more than that. As the days get darker, it feels as if your whole being is being drained from you. Every menial task feels like climbing a mountain. Getting out of bed is like lifting 300lbs off your body. Even the things that give you the most joy, like music, become yet another weight to bear. Everything could be going right, hell there could be peace on Earth and still, it may feel as if the darkness is tearing you apart.
I am very fortunate to have a supportive family and King Youngblood community who have helped me through this hard time. I have managed to drag myself to rehearsal every week and each time I have been uplifted by my bandmates. This along with regular calls and texts from the King Youngblood community have been instrumental in keeping me afloat and successful. I have been active in taking my medication including vitamin D, seeing my doctors, using a SAD therapy light, and meditating nearly every day. I have learned that with the right resources you can overcome deeply challenging times.
With the beginning of the new year, there has been much to reflect on. King Youngblood has come so far in just a year and we have so much further to go. I am particularly excited about the growth of Hold Your Crown. Having experienced mental illness, I know the importance of bringing resources to young people and giving people the courage to get help when in need. Please be on the lookout for what we have in store. I am thrilled at all the prospects.
Thank you to all the fans that have supported us on this journey. We couldn’t do it without you!
Here’s to a wonderful year ahead, cheers and Happy New Year!
-Cory Cavazos