Laura Watkins shares her raw and inspiring journey of survival, breaking the silence on her mental health struggles. From a high-achieving sorority girl and MBA graduate to a young military wife raising daughters and building a career as a successful salon owner, Laura appeared unstoppable.

But behind the polished exterior, her mental health was spiraling-leading to breakdowns, failed treatments, and the darkest moment of secretly planning her own death. Desperate and fragile, Laura found a treatment team she trusted, learned to advocate for herself, and turned to ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)-a choice that became her lifeline and path to recovery.

Now thriving, Laura's story is a beacon of hope for those suffering in silence, reminding us that help is out there, healing is possible, and you are never alone.

Laura Watkins is the owner of Pure Salon Spa, an Aveda salon and spa recognized among the Top 200 Laura also serves as a "Purefessor" with the Aveda Business College, where she shares her expertise in business development and leadership with salon owners across the country.

Watkins hopes to use her platform to educate others about the power of self-care as a form of preventative care-especially within high-pressure service industries like beauty and wellness.

Watkins lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and two daughters. She holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and an MBA from the University of Louisville, as well as a professional cosmetology license. She serves on the board of directors for Mental Health Lou, a nonprofit working to ensure that mental wellness remains at the center of community conversations.