Hope, community, and collective healing.

Better Because Collective fosters growth from trauma through the power of storytelling.

Woman with red lipstick smiling and staring into the camera.

Sharing hope, building community, and shaping a narrative of collective healing.

Better Because Collective fosters growth from trauma through the power of storytelling.

Sharing hope, building community, and shaping a narrative of collective healing.

Better Because Collective fosters growth from trauma through the power of storytelling.

Sharing hope, building community, and shaping a narrative of collective healing.

Better Because Collective is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fosters growth from trauma through the power of storytelling.

Woman with red lipstick smiling and staring into the camera.

Empowering stories from folks like you

Better Because Collective is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by a team of dedicated volunteers. Our site serves as a platform for people to tell their stories of recovery and resilience in their own words, on their own terms, and by doing so discover their post-traumatic growth. Our incredible team of volunteers and story editors understand how to engage with individuals writing personal narratives of growth from traumatic events.

In a nutshell, post-traumatic growth (PTG) refers to positive changes which an individual may experience following trauma or extremely challenging situations. It helps to think of PTG not as an alternative to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but as a parallel process that may occur after difficult life events. Our mission at Better Because Collective is to amplify your personal stories of surviving, and thriving, in spite of hardship. We believe in the power of shared experiences to remind us that we’re never alone.

Get Inspired

Read stories of post-traumatic growth, told by our incredible community members.

  • Anders Kass

    Striving for “Normal”

    Anders Kass, story contributor, outdoors with a tree in the background.

    Through the process of recovery, Anders has discovered his resilience. His brain injury, which he once viewed as a flaw, has proven to be a testament of his power, an amplifier of his voice, and a vehicle of self-discovery.

    Read the story
  • Amanda Boman

    What Does Freedom Mean

    Amanda Boman, a story contributor, wearing a silver septum piercing and a black top with colorful floral embroidery.

    Amanda spent years denying her alcoholism, afraid that facing it would liken her to her father. A hungover Sunday morning resulted in an epiphany that gave her the strength to face the trauma she had for so long tried to drown. Today, she revels in her sobriety.

    Read the story
  • Ben Sacks

    A Better Version of Me

    Ben Sacks.

    Diagnosed with major depressive disorder, Ben began a journey to find the right treatment. Ben opted to take a non-traditional route: ketamine-assisted therapy. Psychedelic experiences allowed Ben to view his life from a different lens.

    Read the story

Want to inspire others by sharing your story?

Our collection of stories comes from people who have many different experiences – like those stemming from mental health, traumatic accidents, and chronic illness. Connect with a warm, friendly, encouraging editor to publish your personal narrative today.

Closeup of a person's arm writing in a notebook.

Growth from trauma is a collective story

You can get involved by volunteering, sharing your story, or participating in our in person events. Help us make a difference by contributing your skills and time to support others on their healing journey. Together, we can create a stronger, more resilient community. Join our amazing team and make an impact today!