I've noticed that natural alternatives are becoming increasingly popular lately.

Everywhere I look there are articles claiming to hold the truth behind prescription medications and companies shoving their products in my face, which they insist "works just as well as the real thing."

Now don't get me wrong, I have nothing against those who choose to live a more natural, chemical-free life. I do, however, have an issue with those who judge others for choosing a different way of living. It's not OK and it needs to stop.

Many people are affected by anxiety disorders.

In fact, 40 million adults in the U.S. live with some type of anxiety disorder. That's a little less than a quarter of our country's population! And while it's not something that I frequently talk about, I am one of these individuals. From a young age, I have always been considered a "worry-wart." By the time I reached third grade I was deathly afraid of thunderstorms.

When I say I was afraid of them, I mean I would look up the weather weeks in advance and if there was even the slightest chance that there would be a storm, I would refuse to go to school that day. As you can imagine, this must have been extremely fun for my parents (sorry guys). The anxiety and apprehension monopolized so much of my time that missed out on doing things that a normal third grader would do, like spending the night at a friend's house.

Throughout my 20 years on this earth, I have had numerous themes of anxiety. However, it wasn't until recent years that my doctor decided to prescribe me antidepressants. My anxiety disorders were causing me so much distress that I had completely fallen into a dark hole which goes by the name, depression. Looking back, I am so grateful that my doctor gave me this option. And while I do still live with my anxiety disorders, the severity is nowhere near where it was at my lowest point. The symptoms of my depression have also greatly reduced. These medications have truly changed my life.

I have no issue speaking about this topic with people, but I do have a problem with others condemning me for my decision.

I would never judge you for taking your medication for ADHD or having a prescription for your migraines. So why is it OK for you to do so regarding my medications? I've had multiple people try to convince me that I wouldn't need to take antidepressants if I would just exercise regularly or go for a walk or do something to occupy my mind. And while I do all of these things, sometimes it's not enough. To myself and countless others, antidepressants have been a godsend which have dramatically changed our lives.; and we should in no way be condemned for taking them.

Because when it comes down to it, your life decisions are no one's business but your own.