How Volunteering and Self-Acceptance Helped Me Rebuild My Mental Health

Hello! Who are you?

My name is Staff Sgt. Cody Mackall. I’m a U.S. Army Master Resilience Trainer and recently served as the Army’s representative for the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Program, which aims to enhance the quality of life for Army Soldiers by providing them with a support network and a range of opportunities for personal and professional development, including social, recreational, and community service activities.

Outside of uniform, I am a motivational speaker and mental health advocate with a passion for volunteering and community outreach.

Currently, I live in San Antonio, Texas and serve on the Board of Directors for South Texas Swimming, in addition to my day job as Contingency Command Post Operations NCO for the U.S. Army Southern Command.

What is your struggle and when did it start?

In 2016, I found myself at a very low point, battling severe depression that culminated in a suicide attempt. I felt isolated and overwhelmed, especially after enduring a painful breakup and a significant medical procedure that left me vulnerable. During this time, I experienced a range of symptoms, including intense feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and a sense of purposelessness.

I had just transferred to Fort Campbell in Kentucky as my unit deployed just days after I arrived. The loneliness hit hard, as I had lost my support system, and my mental health deteriorated rapidly. I initially joined the Army seeking a better life and an escape from the challenges back home in Ohio but found myself experiencing emotional turmoil.

Today, thanks to the impact the Army’s BOSS program had on me, I find that my struggles impact me less frequently, but they can still surface unexpectedly. I’ve learned that when I start to feel those old feelings creep back in, it’s essential to lean on my support network and fellow Soldiers. BOSS became a vital lifeline, reminding me that I’m not alone and that there are paths to healing and purpose even in the darkest moments.

How did this struggle make you feel at your worst moments?

At my worst moments, it felt like I was carrying an invisible weight everywhere I went. It’s hard to describe, but there were days when just getting up and going through the motions took everything I had. I’d feel this heaviness that clouded my thoughts, and even though I wanted to stay positive, it was like trying to run through quicksand.

My usual sense of happiness felt distant, like something I had to remember rather than actually feel. Those were the times when I truly understood how isolating a struggle like this can be.

For the longest time, I tried to keep it to myself. I felt this need to stay strong, to keep up the front, especially because people around me relied on me. I worried that showing what I was going through would let others down or make them see me differently. So, I put on a brave face, thinking I could power through on my own.

But trying to handle it alone actually made things feel worse; it deepened that feeling of being alone. I realize now that sharing what I was going through wouldn’t have made me any less strong—in fact, letting people in might have given me more strength to face it.

Looking back, that struggle taught me something important: it’s okay not to be okay, and it’s okay to need help. Real strength isn’t in pretending everything’s fine; it’s in admitting when you’re not and being open to support. Everyone faces battles others don’t see, and by being real about ours, we not only help ourselves but create a space where others feel they can be real too.

👉 Share your story: Help thousands of people around the world by sharing your own story. We would love to publish your interview and have a positive impact on the world together. Learn more here.

Was there a moment when you started to turn things around?

There was a pivotal moment when I started to turn things around, and it came unexpectedly through a simple phone call. After months of isolation and despair, a friend reached out and encouraged me to volunteer for an Army BOSS event. At that moment, I felt a spark of hope. It was a reminder that I wasn’t alone and that I could still connect with others who understood what I was going through.

That call was the catalyst that reignited my commitment to the BOSS program and to my own well-being.

I believe this change was largely a result of my circumstances, but it also required my own willingness to take action. I would say about 60% of the improvement was due to the supportive environment BOSS provided alongside my fellow Soldiers, while 40% was my decision to actively engage with that support.

Before that call, I felt trapped in a cycle of negativity, but stepping back into the BOSS community gave me a renewed sense of purpose. The camaraderie and understanding I found there were instrumental in my healing.

What steps did you take to overcome your struggle?

Drawing from my own journey, there were five actionable steps we can all take to overcome our personal struggles

1. Prioritize authentic connections. We must go beyond the shallow waters of online interactions and dive into the depths of genuine human connection. I’ll never forget the time I realized my online friendships weren’t filling the void. So, I made it a habit to meet up with friends in person, cherishing those face-to-face moments that brought our bonds to life.
2. Practice empathy and active listening. Sometimes, all it takes is a listening ear and an open heart to make someone feel seen and heard. The day a friend opened up to me about their struggles, I listened intently, validating their feelings and offering support. It made a world of difference for them, and for our friendship.
3. Join and create inclusive communities. Let’s build spaces where everyone feels like they belong, regardless of background or identity. Whether it’s through school clubs, workplace initiatives, or community events, let’s celebrate diversity and embrace each other’s unique perspectives. I’ve seen firsthand the power of inclusive communities to uplift and support one another, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
4. Encourage offline interactions. While technology has its perks, nothing beats good old-fashioned face-to-face time. Let’s encourage young people to unplug and engage in real-life activities that foster meaningful connections. I’ll never forget the laughter and camaraderie of game nights with friends, where our screens took a backseat to genuine human interaction.
5. Be a supportive presence to others. Welcoming others into my life was paramount to overcoming my struggle. Sometimes, a small gesture of kindness can make all the difference to someone who’s struggling. I still remember the day a friend reached out to grab coffee with me when I was feeling particularly lonely. That simple act of companionship reminded me that I wasn’t alone in my struggles, and it meant the world to me. 

By taking these steps, we can all play a part in addressing the loneliness epidemic among young people, creating a world where genuine connection and support are the norm. Let’s lead by example and build communities where everyone feels valued, seen, and heard.

Have you shared any of this with people around you in real life?

I’m writing a book about my own journey with my mental health. It was a battle I fought behind closed doors, afraid to let anyone in on the turmoil I was experiencing. When I took on the role of Army BOSS Representative, someone asked me how I could leverage my experiences to promote the program and I felt sharing my story could make a difference.

I mustered up the courage to sit down with Steve Warns, our organization’s Public Affairs Officer, and I opened up about a small piece of my story. It was like a weight lifted off my shoulders. The support and love I received from that tiny moment of vulnerability was overwhelming.

Then, someone said something that stuck with me. “Cody,” they said, “You have one unique story. Your journey could be one powerful book.” So, I started to write. I poured my heart onto the pages, sharing the highs and lows, the struggles and triumphs.

When I let my best friend read the first few chapters, it was a watershed moment. Even though she had been by my side for the majority of our friendship, she didn’t know the extent of my struggles.

Yet, reading my words brought her to tears. My book is a testament to the fact that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. My hope is that when people read it, they’ll see that it’s okay to struggle, to seek help, and to find hope. It’s a reminder that none of us are alone in our battles, and that there’s strength in vulnerability.

If you could give a single piece of advice to someone else that struggles, what would that be?

If I could share one piece of advice with someone who’s struggling, it would be this: don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

I know firsthand how intimidating it can feel to open up about your challenges. There were times when I thought I had to shoulder everything alone, thinking that admitting I was struggling would somehow make me weak. But let me tell you—what I’ve learned is that vulnerability is actually a sign of strength. There’s a profound sense of relief and connection that comes from sharing your burdens with others, whether it’s friends, family, or even a professional. 

When life feels overwhelming, it’s so important to remember that you don’t have to walk this path by yourself. Everyone faces their own battles, and just talking about what you’re going through can be incredibly healing. I wish I had realized earlier that there’s a whole community out there ready to support you.

So take that step—reach out and connect with someone. You might be amazed by the kindness and understanding waiting for you. Life is full of ups and downs, and with the right support, you can not only survive but truly thrive.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and in doing so, you open the door to healing, growth, and the realization that you’re never truly alone in this journey.

What have been the most influential books, podcasts, YouTube channels, or other resources for you?

• Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek: This book has profoundly impacted my leadership journey. Sinek emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment for teams, which resonated with my experiences in the Army and my role as a coach. I took his insights on prioritizing the well-being of others to heart, understanding that effective leadership is about serving those you lead. Implementing these principles has not only enhanced my skills as a leader but has also fostered a deeper connection and camaraderie among my teammates and those I mentor. 
• The Joe Rogan Podcast: This podcast has been a significant source of inspiration and insight for me. Rogan’s discussions cover a wide range of topics, from mental health to fitness to personal growth. Listening to diverse guests share their experiences and perspectives has broadened my understanding of the human experience. It has motivated me to stay curious, embrace new ideas, and continually seek growth in my own life. The candid conversations remind me that everyone struggles and that we can all learn from each other’s journeys.

Where can we go to learn more about you?

If you’re eager to keep up with my work and stay connected, there are a few avenues you can explore. If you’re intrigued by the Army and want to learn more, I encourage you to reach out to your local recruiter or visit GoArmy.com. I’ll admit, I was initially hesitant about joining, but looking back now, I’m incredibly grateful that I took that leap of faith. 

For those interested in the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) program, you can find more information by visiting this website. This program has been instrumental in providing support and camaraderie for soldiers like myself, and I highly recommend checking it out. 

Lastly, if you’d like to stay updated on my personal journey and adventures, you can find me on any social media platform under the handle @Cody_Mackall on Instagram and X/Twitter.

Feel free to connect, engage, and join me on this exciting journey! 

Is there anything else I should have asked you?

If there’s one movement I could spark, one that would radiate positivity and impact countless lives, it would be a movement rooted in empathy, acceptance, and unwavering support for mental health. Picture a world where we wholeheartedly embrace the notion that it’s okay not to be okay.

Where we recognize that facing challenges and overcoming struggles is an inherent part of the human journey, and it’s our response to these trials that defines us. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable transformation that occurs when we extend a hand of empathy and understanding.  

We must dismantle the walls of stigma surrounding mental health and carve out safe havens where individuals feel empowered to seek help without the burden of judgment or shame. In this ever-evolving world, where challenges emerge like waves on the shore, we have a choice – to adapt with empathy and grace.

Instead of dwelling on trivial matters that tear us apart, let’s celebrate even the smallest victories and lift each other up. Let’s become beacons of hope and pillars of support for those navigating through dark times, reminding them that they are not alone and that brighter days await. 

Together, we possess the remarkable ability to inspire change, to cultivate a world where every soul feels valued, acknowledged, and understood. Let’s make a conscious decision to lead with kindness, to extend a hand of compassion, and to embody the change we wish to see in the world.

💡 By the way: If you want to start feeling better and more productive, I’ve condensed the information of 100’s of our articles into a 10-step mental health cheat sheet here. 👇

Want more interviews?

Continue reading our inspiring case studies and learn how to overcome mental health struggles in a positive way!

Want to help others with your story? We would love to publish your interview and have a positive impact on the world together. Learn more here.

💡 By the way: If you want to start feeling better and more productive, I’ve condensed the information of 100’s of our articles into a 10-step mental health cheat sheet here. 👇

Want more interviews?

Continue reading our inspiring case studies and learn how to overcome mental health struggles in a positive way!

Want to help others with your story? We would love to publish your interview and have a positive impact on the world together. Learn more here.