If you've read How to Disappear, you know that Vicurious is the anonymous Instagram account of the main character, Vicky Decker. It's where she goes to escape the isolation caused by her extreme social anxiety, using Photoshop to create experiences she wishes she could have IRL. It's also where she and her followers support one another.
While Vicky and Vicurious are fictional characters, there is a REAL Instagram account that I created for the book. I found a lovely teen girl to portray the character in the photographs, and I write all the content and comments myself from the perspective of Vicky/Vicurious.
Readers are finding their way to @Vicurious, and it means so much to me that they have connected to her story. I also love that followers are starting to reach out to each other, just as they do in the book.
I want Vicurious to be a place where readers can share their own fears and anxieties, and find support and kindness. However, it's important to understand that I am not a mental health professional and cannot fill that role for those who really need to talk to someone who is qualified to address their issues.
If you are experiencing bullying, depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, please look to a trusted adult in your life. It could be a parent or other family member, a teacher or school counselor—someone who can provide or find the help you need.
You can also contact any of these organizations for support:
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Teen Mental Health
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
HelpGuide
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Find a Therapist – Psychology Today
therapists.psychologytoday.com
Teen Health & Wellness
The Trevor Project (for LGBTQIAP Teens)
MindShift App
As for Vicurious, she will continue to live vicariously on Instagram, limited only by my imagination and Photoshop skills. I love to hear reader's suggestions of where she should go next, and if you want her to visit YOU, just send a photo via DM!
And remember: You are not invisible, or alone. You are special and important and I see you!