Life is rough. Sometimes there's more than sticks and stones being thrown your way. You're bound to get swept up in the riptide. It happens to the best of us. It's okay. I'm here to tell you to remember to take care of yourself.

Self-care is not expressed enough. It's like what they tell you when you're receiving safety instructions while flying. When adjusting the breathing mask or life vest, you're told to help yourself before helping others. Putting your needs first can seem selfish, but you have to be somewhat selfish in order to be selfless. So, put yourself first.

If you're struggling, don't be afraid to seek assistance. Don't put it off for another day. Tomorrow will turn into the next day. The next day will turn into the day after that. The day after that will turn into weeks. Weeks will turn into months, and so on. Don't let your problems pile up, because it will all catch up to you. It will crumble on you and crush you like a pile of bricks.

Then all of a sudden, you'll find yourself falling apart at 7:48 p.m. on a Sunday. Deal with issues as they come, and address them in the moment. It may seem difficult, but it's better than tucking it away. Don't be afraid to talk to people. It's scary to open up, but it will make you feel better. The power of conversation is extraordinary.

Take care of yourself because nobody else can. Taking care of yourself will ensure your happiness. It can have such a positive impact on your existence, and how you interact with the world around you. Nobody deserves to feel helpless, or alone, or lost. Nobody deserves to feel anxious for no reason, or depressed. You can do it, I know you can.

You may feel weak in the moment, but what doesn't kill you can only make you stronger. It's okay to be vulnerable. Vulnerability is a human characteristic. You have the right to feel exposed and bare every once in a while. Most of the time, you're not alone. Someone else may be going through what you're going through.

Take care of yourself in as many ways as possible. Take that mental health day. Go to a specialist or counselor. Treat yourself how you want to be treated. Shower yourself with love, affection, and compliments. Splurge on something every once in a while. Do what makes you feel the best version of yourself. Be you.

You can withstand any disaster. Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. You're resilient. You're unique. You're strong, flawless, and beautiful. Sometimes even the nicest metal can tarnish. There's no doubt that it can go back to being bright, shiny, and new again.

Remember to take care of yourself.