Dysphoria

Abstract

Abstract What started as a short story in 2020 has morphed into a contemporary coming of age novel titled, Dysphoria. Like many fictional stories, mine is inspired by true events and raw emotions. Its purpose is to educate young adults on sensitive subjects and encourage conversations with loved ones who may not know how to support survivors of sexual assault or members of the LGBTQ+ community. Dysphoria explores the concept of life after trauma in real time. Although every mental health disorder is unique, the grieving process is similar and is equally as important. Using characterization and dark humor, Dysphoria is told through the perspective of Colombian American twins, Terry and Gracie, via alternating chapters. The opening scene takes place at their high school on their first day of junior year. Each twin is struggling with their own dysphoria but what they don’t know is that their traumas are interconnected. Chaos takes over when a familiar face comes to town and haunting memories of the past awaken. How do you care for others when you can’t take care of yourself? How do you change a codependent relationship into an interdependent one? Are you willing to risk rejection for self-identity? These are some of the major themes disclosed in my novel with enough questions unanswered for a sequel.