The Story is Enough
In 2020, Kat Alexander experienced a serious mental health crisis that would last more than a year. In 2022, she and her best friend, author and beloved San Diego Magazine contributor Mara Altman, began chronicling the crisis and its aftermath in what would eventually become EPISODES: The True Story of Two Friends & One Diagnosis, an Amazon original audio book debuting this week. Read by Alexander and Altman, Episodes is a braided narrative of memory. The authors, both San Diego natives, take turns recounting stories of their budding friendship in their 20s and building on each other’s recollections of their deepening connection. It’s an impressive feat, both in intimacy and structure. Along the way, Alexander fills in the gaps of her childhood, recounting how abuse at a young age shaped much of her experience as an adult. The story traverses decades, culminating in a touching act of friendship in which Altman flies to Mexico on a rescue mission to find Alexander naked on the streets of Playa del Carmen in the midst of a manic bipolar episode triggered by IVF treatments. San Diego Magazine checked in with Alexander and Altman ahead of the audio book launch to find out more about the project. How did the idea for Episodes come about?Mara Altman (MA): I always write about personal stuff and taboo subjects. Kat and I were navigating her recent bipolar diagnosis and some intense manic episodes. I was working on another writing project, but I kept thinking about the experiences we shared during her mania. Finding her on the streets in Mexico was a huge part of that. It felt important to show people what a mental health crisis really looks like and the ripple effects it has on family, friends, and community.What’s the heart of this project for you both?Kat Alexander (KA): I like to say it’s a love story about me and my best friend. This project isn’t about me being defined by my trauma, my infertility, or my diagnosis. Mara captures me and our friendship with humor and heart, and she’s helped me learn how to have healthy boundaries.MA: I’d call it a love story, too—two best friends navigating an intense mental health crisis. It’s a window into what it means to experience psychosis triggered by IVF treatment and the fallout of that, especially given our fractured mental health care system.Kat, how did you feel when Mara proposed co-writing this with you?KA: It was serious for me. I mean, I burned out in my previous work, and I’ve learned that you can’t try to save the world when you’re struggling to get through each day. So I told Mara I’d need space if I needed breaks and that I had to write this for myself. I wasn’t going to try to save the world with this book—it was just about telling the story as it happened.How did you structure your writing process for such a personal story?MA: It was a slow peeling back of layers. I started by writing my perspective as a foundation, then added questions for Kat. We’d get together, take long walks, [and] talk it out, or I’d write while she dictated. Sometimes she’d free-associate memories, and, later, she’d go back and add more detail. As she healed, Kat remembered more, and we kept building from there.Was it challenging to tell this story, given how memory can be affected by trauma and mental health struggles?KA: Memory was definitely a hurdle. After my first psychotic episode, I was overwhelmed by grief, feeling like my life as I knew it was over. Mara would gently help me recall certain moments. This process was incredibly healing for me—it gave me the space to process what had happened.Who are you hoping to reach with Episodes?MA: For me, I hope to give people a window into what a mental health crisis looks like, to show them the human side behind the headlines about mental health. I want people to understand that a crisis can happen to anyone.KA: There’s an epidemic of unresolved trauma, and it can lead to addiction, health issues, and so much more. This is an invitation for anyone with unresolved trauma or who’s going through a crisis to find hope. I also hope it shows that mental illness is not what defines a person.Can you tell us about one of the most challenging aspects of this project?KA: Grief was a big part of it. After my first psychotic episode, I lost a lot—friends, relationships, stability. Mara would scoop me up and gently help me recall certain moments. It was intense, but healing.Did you learn anything surprising about mental health in the process?MA: Definitely. I’ve learned a lot about managing mental health, even joining a call with Kat’s psychiatrist to better understand her medication adjustments. It was a whole new layer of insight for me as a journalist and friend.What’s one thing you learned or are particularly proud of in this project?KA: I’m proud that Mara and I are still friends, even closer. Writing a project like this can strain any relationship, and we’ve definitely had hard moments, but it’s made us stronger.MA: I’ve learned so much about mental health. This project taught me to be patient and compassionate, and it’s changed my understanding of what it means to be there for someone going through a mental health crisis.Q: What’s the message you want people to take from this story?MA: I want people to break the stigma around mental health issues. And ultimately, we’re just telling the story of what happened—people can take from it what they need. We always felt that we didn’t need to do too much, the story is enough.KA: Healing is possible.Alexander and Altman will celebrate the release of Episodes on Tuesday, November 12, at 6 p.m. at Bivouac Adventure Lodge in North Park (3980 30th Street).The post The Story is Enough appeared first on San Diego Magazine.
15 of the Best Golf Courses in San Diego
San Diego, with its gorgeous coastal views and year-round sunny weather, is a golfer’s paradise, offering an impressive array of courses that cater to all skill levels, whether your scorecard usually consists of eagles or bogies. For locals and out-of-towners alike, exploring these courses will not only test your skills but also immerse you in the breathtaking scenery that San Diego is known for. Courtesy of Coronado Golf CourseCoronado Golf CourseCoronado Golf Course, opened in 1957, is one of San Diego’s more walkable courses. Cited as a top SD course by the Golf Channel, the well-maintained public course offers views of the Coronado bridge and boats out on the water. The onsite restaurant serves American bites (including vegan options) for brunch and lunch.2000 Visalia Row, CoronadoCourtesy of Torrey Pines Golf CourseTorrey Pines Golf CourseConsistently ranked as one of Golf Digest’s 100 greatest courses, the challenging Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla hosted the 2021 US Open and puts on the annual PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open. Named after the rare Torrey Pine tree, which only grows along the San Diego coastline and Santa Rosa Island, the course has made its way onto many golfers’ bucket lists.11480 N Torrey Pines Road, La JollaCourtesy of Fairmont Grand Del MarThe Grand Golf ClubLocated at the luxurious Fairmont Grand Del Mar, The Grand Golf Club and its 50,000-square-foot driving range are open to hotel guests. Three-hundred-and-sixty degree views of each hole are available online, helping give you a leg up if you’re trying to improve your handicap. And if your kiddo dreams of becoming a future Masters champion, this course is the perfect place to take them, as children 12 and under can play and rent clubs for free.5300 Grand Del Mar Way, Del MarCourtesy of Park Hyatt AviaraAviara Golf ClubAviara Golf Club is San Diego’s only course designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. Situated within Carlsbad’s Park Hyatt Aviara, this layout includes strategically placed bunkers and water features that provide both pretty views and tough obstacles. And, if you’d like to level up your gear game, the course’s TaylorMade Aviara Performance Center allows you to test clubs with 3D motion analysis technology. The club offers both public and resort fees, as well as online course videos that provide insight into hole details and potential strategies.7447 Batiquitos Drive, CarlsbadCourtesy of Rancho Bernardo InnRancho Bernardo Inn Golf CourseDesigned by golf course architect William Francis Bell, the Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course has hosted both PGA and LPGA events. Its 18th hole, surrounded by old-growth trees, is a fan favorite. Golf lessons are also available at the Carlsbad course, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned golfer needing a couple tips or tweaks.17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr, Rancho BernardoCourtesy of Singing Hills Golf ClubSinging Hills Golf ClubSinging Hills Golf Club supplies golfers with three courses in the Dehesa Valley of San Diego County. The Willow Glen course runs along the Sweetwater River and features narrow fairways, while the Oak Glen course is known for rolling greens and a beautiful, yet difficult, fifth hole. The nine-hole Pine Glen course is ideal for beginners or those looking to squeeze in a quick round. 3007 Dehesa Road, El CajonCourtesy of Mt. Woodson Golf GlubMt. Woodson Golf ClubThe course at Mt. Woodson Golf Club in Ramona is tough—but you don’t need to worry about having an audience for any whiffs. Each hole is so secluded it’ll feel like you and your buddies are the only ones on the course. Open to the public and surrounded by serene, rocky hills, the club also houses a bar and grill with some of the best prices in town (hello, post-birdie BLT for under $9). 16422 North Woodson Drive, RamonaCourtesy of Goat Hill Park Golf ClubGoat Hill Park Golf ClubOriginally built in 1952, Oceanside’s Goat Hill Park Golf Club was one of the first golf courses in San Diego County and began as a regulation-length nine-hole setup. In the early 1990s, it was redesigned into an 18-hole course, enhancing its appeal to golfers seeking a fun time on the links and a laid-back atmosphere.2323 Goat Hill Drive, OceansideAugust 13, 202417 of San Diego's Best Tennis Courts and ClubsRELATED ARTICLECourtesy of Southern California Golf AssociationAdmiral Baker Golf CourseAdmiral Baker Golf Course, located within the historic Navy complex near Tierrasanta, is notable for its two distinct 18-hole courses—the North and South. The lush fairways and well-maintained greens are complemented by facilities like a driving range and eatery.2400 Admiral Baker Road, No. 3604, TierrasantaCourtesy of Carlton Oaks Golf ClubCarlton Oaks Golf ClubOnce Phil Mickelson’s playing spot in his youth, Santee’s Carlton Oaks Golf Club has hosted a range of golf tournaments and events, including the Callaway Junior World Championships and NCAA Championships. The course tests players with pot bunkers and water hazards while still highlighting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.9200 Inwood Drive, SanteeCourtesy of Maderas Golf ClubMaderas Golf ClubMaderas Golf Club is a championship public course that winds through the rolling hills of Poway. Its 40 acres have been recognized by numerous golf publications. Players can rent Callaway clubs and also book lessons for themselves or their little golfers.17750 Old Coach Road, PowayCourtesy of Torrey Pines Golf ClubSteele Canyon Golf ClubA 27-hole championship course in Jamul, Steele Canyon Golf Club was designed by Gary Player, one of golf’s all-time greats. Three nine-hole courses—The Canyon, The Ranch, and The Vineyard—offer diverse and challenging holes, earning the club a four-and-a-half-star rating from Golf Digest (it’s one of only three golf clubs in San Diego County with that honor).3199 Stonefield Drive, JamulCourtesy of The Crossing at CarlsbadThe Crossings at CarlsbadNamed after the bridges designed into the layout, The Crossings at Carlsbad offers a variety of terrains and elevation changes. Each hole features five separate areas to tee off, allowing players to customize both the length of the hole and their overall strategy. There are also stay-and-play rates and tee times for players through specific Carlsbad hotels and resorts.5800 The Crossings Drive, CarlsbadCourtesy of Rams Hill Golf ClubRams Hill Golf ClubNestled in the Anza-Borrego Desert is the Rams Hill Golf Club, a previously private but now public course that features captivating views of the mountains. The design tests golfers, especially the fifth hole, which includes deep bunkers and sits next to a lake you’ll have to work hard to keep your ball out of. 1881 Rams Hill Road, Borrego SpringsCourtesy of Encinitas Ranch Golf CourseEncinitas RanchPerched on a sweep of bluffs, Encinitas Ranch Golf Course offers magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean from every hole, making it one of the most picturesque courses in Southern California. The course offers rates for the public, with special discounts for Encinitas and Southern California residents. Encinitas Ranch includes the usual driving range and chipping green, along with a putting course that features two sets of six holes, a windmill, and benches if you’d rather crack open a cold one and watch your friends warm up.1275 Quail Gardens Drive, EncinitasThe post 15 of the Best Golf Courses in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.
3 San Diego Hikes to Try When You’re Feeling Down
They say “nature is the best medicine,” and luckily, that’s more than just an old adage. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors has tons of benefits, including mental health and physical advantages. s a San Diego resident, we’ve been blessed with plenty of opportunities to get the sun on our face nearly any time of year. For me, whenever things are not going very well, one of my best ways to cope is get outside—whether it’s a walk, run, hitting the beach, or just feeling the grass under my toes. AIf you’ve been feeling down lately, these are a few of my favorite hikes to improve your mood when you need a little pick-me-up.Pyles Peak – 6 MilesThe trail from Cowles Mountain to Pyles Peak is one of my all time favorites in San Diego. Yes, you have to first navigate 1.5 miles of the very busy path to climb Cowles Mountain. But once you do, and step onto the second trail from Cowles’ summit to Pyles, it’s like you’ve instantly transported to a peaceful and solitary trail with very few hikers on it. The views are absolutely beautiful all along the way, with sweeping scenes of the ocean on a clear day. Plus the additional challenge is enough to make you feel taxed and accomplished, which can really help when things feel bad. Start at the Cowles Mountain trailhead on Golfcrest Drive and then follow the signs for Pyles Peak once you’ve reached the summit.Distance: 6 miles out and backDifficulty: ChallengingDogs: AllowedDetails: Parking is free, and if the spots are taken in the parking lot you can park along the road. Just be sure to cramp your wheels!January 9, 20244 Ways to Work Toward Emotional Healing Via HikingRELATED ARTICLECourtesy of Friends of Coast Walk TrailLa Jolla Beach Trail – 2.3 MilesThere is something therapeutic about walking right next to the ocean. The smells of salty sea air, the sounds of waves—they literally bottle this stuff and use it in spas—so getting a dose of the real thing has to be beneficial. And navigating the winding paths along La Jolla Cove is a perfect way to take it all in. Plus, there are the ever-entertaining sea lions and seals to watch if you need additional distraction. Start near the Museum of Contemporary Art La Jolla and follow the cliffside path to La Jolla Shores. There are a few different winding paths to follow, so you can make your out and back different.Distance: 2.3 miles out and backDifficulty: EasyDogs: AllowedCourtesy of Outdoor ProjectAnza-Borrego Desert State Park – 3.25 MilesThis desert park is a longer drive than the other suggestions, but it’s not too far—about an hour and a half one way. And the chance to roam in an open desert, or explore the slot canyons and abandoned mines of this state park make it well worth the trip. The desert landscape is devastatingly beautiful, and can give you that open mind feeling you need when things are tough. Even better when wildflowers are in bloom, but any time in the fall or winter and great for a visit. Start at the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead just past the campground and try the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, which takes you past a neat palm oasis and waterfalls. Distance: 3.25 miles for the loopDifficulty: ModerateDogs: Not allowedDetails: A state parks parking pass is required.The post 3 San Diego Hikes to Try When You’re Feeling Down appeared first on San Diego Magazine.
Categories
Recent Posts
