The 'Wonder' of mental healthIn his early years, Ben loved to run around, be silly and play Star Wars, Spiderman and Toy Story. Just after his sixth birthday and days before Christmas, Ben developed aggressive facial tics. His personality and behaviour changed from happy, funny, energetic and silly to anxious, obsessive, emotional, angry and depressed. After visiting over 20 doctors, getting seven misdiagnoses and his mental health declining further, Ben is finally diagnosed with PANDAS. A little-known and understood disorder without a cure.At eight years old, Ben and his family move to a new city to start a new life. Ben gains confidence, navigates his first crush and plays competitive sports. Throughout these experiences, Ben encounters challenges in a new school, coping with his mental health and understanding and accepting himself. Ben shares how he handles all the trials of being a middle grader with PANDAS and his unique outlook on the disorder and life.
