Asking for help does not mean you are weak. There are so many people in the world who suffer silently because they feel “crazy,” “weird,” or “embarrassed” about what is going on in their head. I was one of those people at one point in my life. The racing thoughts and torture I would put myself through finally became enough. I went downstairs and told my mom everything that had been going on and she took me to see someone. And let me say, after I told her, I felt so much better.

Was I afraid that she was going to think I was psychotic? Yes, terrified actually. But I knew this is what I had to do for me. See, the funny thing about most of us humans is that we put aside how we feel and what is best for us. We want so bad to please others and we want to be seen as “normal” but what is normal? Personally, I don’t think normal exist. Society creates these images that make people feel bad if they don’t live up to them. No matter what you look like or what goes through your mind, you deserve to feel good.

Looking back at who I was three years ago to who I am now, I see a big difference. Do I still have days where I struggle? Definitely. The thing about asking for help is that it doesn’t work right away and you can’t go into it thinking it will. It takes time. Time for you to learn how to cope and fight of the demons that torment you. I know many people are against being put on medication but I say if it will help than take it.

Asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do. You are at your most vulnerable but you aren’t weak. You aren’t any less of a person. You aren’t “crazy.” You are a warrior who is fighting a battle much stronger than others realize and sometimes we need someone to help us out on the battlefield.

Talk to someone if you are struggling. It can be a parent, a sibling, a relative, a friend, a counselor, a doctor, etc. If they don’t understand, which sometimes they wont, keep being persistent. Be honest with them. You can do it. Always remember you deserve to be helped.