Throughout my teenage years and now, I’ve noticed changes. These changes were mostly in my mood. I would get stressed out for a test or quiz. My hands would fidget and shake and I would get really stiff. I thought it was normal stress or that I was being dramatic.

Going into college, I could tell something was different. A couple of times a week I would get upset about random everyday things. After a couple weeks, my boyfriend suggested that I should consider going to see if I could talk to someone on campus. The next day I made an appointment with the Georgia Southern counseling center. My end goal was to really find out if my reactions were normal. I went to my first appointment and did a first session with one of their therapists. She asked me questions about my studies, my family, and my relationships. At the end of the session I asked her what she thought. She replied with General Anxiety Disorder.

I can’t 100% say I was shocked with this answer. However, this brought more fears. I was terrified to tell anyone. I was afraid they would all think I’m crazy. I didn’t want that label.

Since then I’ve made huge strides with my anxiety. I’ve told my parents, both have been very understanding and helpful. As an alternative to medication, I have found staying active and exercising help a lot. I now have a book of puzzles that help my mind from overthinking about little things. I have learned to relax more, and not to freak out. Anxiety will not stop me from being happy in my life. While it is an obstacle, I will overcome it.

“Behind every flinch is a fear or an anxiety - sometimes rational, sometimes not. Without the fear, there is no flinch. But wiping out the fear isn't what's important - facing it is.” – Julien Smith