To the person struggling to come forward about their anxiety and depression,

I know exactly where you are coming from. The unknown of what people will say or think about you probably adds to the already existing anxiety. It will be one of the hardest parts of the process of getting better, but trust me; it's worth it.

I've been dealing with anxiety and depression for a few years now. The overwhelming fear, the constant feeling of fear in the pit of your stomach, and the feeling that it's all your fault and that the only way out is by hurting yourself is a lot of weight to have on your shoulders. It took me a long time to come out to my family about my struggles and not to be hypocritical, but I have not told anyone else about my struggles aside from my family until this article. I regret waiting this long to come out about my battle because it's been building up resentment toward myself and others. It's frustrating to have a hard time getting through the day, and to have others affected by your actions. It's so easy to get mad and snap at anyone because they do not understand what you are going through, but at the same time, how could they if you don't tell them?

I feel a sense of relief writing this article because it's a burden to carry around a secret as overpowering as this one. Who you go to for help is up to you as long as it's someone that you trust and feel comfortable around. It's OK to ask for help; everyone needs it sometimes. The idea of having to keep your struggles a secret adds to the stigma that you need to be ashamed of mental illness and there is absolutely no reason to be ashamed of any thought or feeling that you may have.

It is OK not to be OK. What isn't OK is feeling that you need to be ashamed of the struggles that you are up against. It just takes one conversation to make the biggest difference. Having that support system puts you one step closer to recovery. Always reach out.

Sincerely,

The girl just learning how to accept her struggles