Ashley Beatty-Pernetti
Bio
Wife. Mom. Creator.
Just a messy 29-year-old, wading her way through life, one word at a time.
Raising mental health awareness with the written word and firsthand experience.
Both fiction and non-fiction stories to nourish your soul.
Stories (40/0)
When Social Distancing Was a Choice
Three months ago, escaping the city and getting away from the hustle and bustle was a choice. One that my husband and I would choose over and over if we had the option. A weekend getaway was relaxing, peaceful, and allowed us quality time together, without our children screaming and running throughout the house. Three months ago, we went on our last weekend getaway for who knows how long, and we would do just about anything to do it again.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Humans
My Almost-Suicide
If you know me or have followed my journey here on Vocal or via social media, you know that I struggle with multiple mental health illnesses, and I’m doing okay right now. For most of you, it probably seems like I’ve been okay for most of my life. Now, if you REALLY know me, and most don’t, you’d know that I’ve thought about committing suicide more than once. As mental health awareness month comes to an end, I felt inspired to share a story with you that not many know.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche
Body Dysmorphia is a B*tch
I’m sure most of us have had thoughts of wishing a part of our body looked different, our hair was thicker, or our eyes were a different color -- because, who hasn’t, right? For me, I wish my boobs were a little bigger, more perky. I wish my bikini line didn’t get such bad razor burn. I wish my teeth were straighter, whiter. There are many physical characteristics I’d like to change, but I’ve also learned how to accept myself just the way I am. That’s not to say I don’t still have those thoughts, because I do. And I’m sure you’ve experienced them a time or two as well. What’s important is to be aware of how often and how extreme those thoughts occur.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche
Three Must-See Shows Few Seem to Know About
It’s no secret that many of us have indulged in much more screen time than usual during this global pandemic. Whether it be scrolling through social media, playing video games, or binge-watching new or favorite shows and movies. For me, I’ve done a lot of all three, but discovering new TV shows is always exciting. I’ve come across several shows on Netflix and Hulu that many of my friends and family don’t seem to know anything about, so I’m here to share a few with the world. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Geeks
You're a Hypocrite When You Say "Country Music Has to Go"
I recently came across an article titled "Music Diversity is Great, but Country Has Got to Go," and the whole thing truly irked me. It's a well-known fact that every genre isn't everyone's cup of tea and we all have the ability to publicly share those opinions. I'm not usually one to address a specific piece of writing by writing my own counterargument, but this one struck a little nerve. I'm sitting here chuckling to myself as I write this because I feel like the person who wrote this country-hating article is slightly hypocritical. And here's why.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Beat
Understanding Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by weight loss, difficulties maintaining a healthy weight, and oftentimes, a distorted body image, and it actually isn’t about food at all. In reality, this disorder is an unhealthy and possibly life-threatening way to cope with emotional issues surrounding a negative body image and poor self worth. At any given moment, 0.4% of young women and 0.1% of young men will suffer from anorexia nervosa.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche
Society's Impact on Body Image
How often do you scroll through Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, or any other social media platform, and see beautiful women, gorgeous men, and individuals that appear absolutely perfect? For me, it’s daily. As a freelancer and lover of social media, I use my platforms often, and I’ve grown tired of the unrealistic standards society has created. This image that everyone has a perfect life, a rocking body, and a mountain of money is a lie. No one is perfect, not even that Instagram influencer model with the perfect tan, beautiful house, and travel history one dreams of -- she has struggles, worries, and dreams she wishes to achieve just like you and me.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche
Social Distancing is Screwing with My Mental Health
I had every intention of writing something more meaningful, more powerful. Something that may help others or make an impact. But as I sat on my couch evaluating each option and the content it would include, I found myself thinking about everything else... then eventually thinking about nothing.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Longevity
It's Okay, Me Too
There’s so much fear and shame surrounding sexual assault or abuse. Many victims would prefer keeping quiet to avoid being judged or dealing with the backlash from others. Today’s society has turned its back on those who have experienced sexual abuse, simply choosing to blame the victim rather than taking a good look at the monsters that commit the crime. Being a victim of sexual abuse often leads to other mental health illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, and possibly suicide. Speaking out on a public platform about my experience isn’t easy, but I think it’s about time it happens.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Viva
An Open Letter to My Husband
Before you, I thought it was normal to feel inadequate in a relationship. Before you, I was so used to being spoken to in a condescending tone. Before you, I thought “real love” included putting up with emotional abuse. Before you, I had no idea what “real love” was.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Humans
Ashley's Anxieties
Okay, people. I’m about to get so real with you. More so than I ever have. I’m going to share my doubts, worries, and anxieties. I’m going to be an open book for those who can’t. Not everyone is comfortable talking about what goes on inside of their mind, some can’t. We are afraid of judgement. We are afraid of lost relationships. We are afraid of rejection. But, most of all, I think we feel ashamed. Ashamed that we can’t control our minds, ashamed that we can’t control our anxieties. And guess what? It’s okay. We are human. Our brains may be wired just a little differently than the person next to us, and that’s okay! So, buckle up ladies and gents, as I dive deep into my own mind and share all you need to know about my struggle with anxiety.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche
Pandemic Anxieties
It’s no secret that those of us suffering from anxiety have noticed some changes in our mental health throughout this global pandemic. Some may be improving, feeling less anxious about things like social gatherings, public appearances, or just being able to enjoy staying home. Others may feel like the weight of the world is on their shoulders as they struggle with feelings of isolation and fear, worrying about their loved ones or how they will make ends meet. Maybe those who had never experienced anxiety before are feeling lost in unfamiliar thoughts and feelings. Whatever it may be, we are all going through changes. I’ve talked with a few individuals and asked them to share how this global pandemic has altered their mental health, specifically anxiety.
By Ashley Beatty-Pernetti4 years ago in Psyche