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Australian journalist and published author Jonathon ‘J.Mo’ Moran, shared his personal journey through mental health struggles, his upbringing in Canberra, and his path to becoming a journalist. J.Mo, who recently published “Mental as Anyone”, reflected on his experiences growing up with a bipolar mother and navigating his own mental health challenges.

Born in Canberra, he described the city as a place of roundabouts, coffee culture, and political decision-making. ​ Despite its charm, his childhood was marked by financial struggles and the emotional toll of his mother’s illness. ​ “She was amazing, my best friend, but there was a lot of darkness,” he said, recalling her bouts of depression and hospitalisations. ​These challenges shaped his early years, leaving him grappling with his own mental health by his late teens. ​

At 20, J.Mo faced a series of life-altering events, including a breakup, confronting an abuser, and a mental health crisis that led to hospitalisation. ​ Diagnosed with severe depression and PTSD, he described his time in the psych ward as both freeing and transformative. ​ “It was a relief to be seen and understood,” he said, noting the stigma surrounding mental health at the time. ​Craft sessions and medication provided a sense of stability, though he admitted the journey was far from over. ​

Determined to build himself a life on his terms, J.Mo moved to Melbourne, where he found employment and indulged in the city’s vibrant nightlife. “I partied a lot, took lots of drugs, and drank, but it was a way to let off steam,” he said. ​ Despite the challenges, he remained focused on his goal of completing his journalism degree. ​After a year in Melbourne, he returned to Canberra, where he graduated and began his career.

J.Mo first journalism role was with Australian Associated Press, working in the press gallery at Parliament House. While he initially doubted his abilities, the opportunity allowed him to hone his skills and gain confidence. “I wanted to be a serious foreign correspondent, but I was plagued with self-doubt,” he admitted. ​

Now considered Australia’s leading entertainment writer at The Daily Telegraph, J.Mo uses his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, drawing from his own experiences to inspire others. ​His book “Mental as Anyone” is was published earlier this year and available wherever good books are sold, and his podcast “Mental As Anyone with J.Mo” updates with new episodes weekly.