Anxiety has always been a substantial part of my life. As a child and into adulthood, I have always been someone who is constantly worrying, over thinking, and stressing about everything. It could be over the smallest things but my mind takes over and anxiety is a result. My family does have a history of anxiety and anxiety related issues, so it's not surprising that I would have anxiety myself.

Throughout life, I was not a "social butterfly." The act of putting myself out there to others for fear of what they would think about me was terrifying. I wouldn't take part in discussions because I felt that what I had to say wasn't valid (I now know that this way of thinking was completely wrong and whatever I have to contribute is valid). Also, I feared making friends because I felt that I was too awkward and no one would like me (especially coming to college).

Constantly worrying, over thinking, and stressing about things can take a toll on someone's mental health. Being in anxiety-causing situations would cause my heart rate to increase, sweating, and would make me sick. Over the years, I've slowly learned to take everything one step at a time. I know that it's okay to have anxiety about things, but what's not okay is that I would let it run my life. There were certain events that I wouldn't go to because of my anxiety of being around others and constantly worrying about what to say to them.

Now that I am a college student who is finished with their first semester, I have grown a lot. Throughout this semester, I put myself out there in many aspects of my life and I am glad that I made the decision to stop over thinking everything so much. I still have anxiety and I know that it will never go away but what I can do is choose to live my life and not let my anxiety take over.