Lately, I've been suffering from a great deal of anxiety and depression. Last night, I was laying in bed, cuddling with my boyfriend and one of our dogs, when all of a sudden I felt completely at ease. In that moment, I had no doubts in my mind that everything would soon start to get better. Unfortunately, moments like these don't come often enough for people with anxiety and/or depression. We get inside of our heads and dwell on small things until they rule our entire mind and it becomes harder and harder to see that light at the end of the tunnel. Those around us get frustrated because they're not sure how to help us, but what's the most frustrating is that we don't always know how to help ourselves.

I want you all to know that we can help ourselves. Staying positive about your life and yourself is difficult, but there are some things you can do to keep your mind occupied. Start practicing yoga, pick up a hobby, or start exercising. Doing anything besides sitting around at home will help you. When you start feeling your anxiety getting more intense, do a quick breathing exercise or take out a coloring book. Getting your mind off of your anxiety or depression is the best thing you can do for yourself.

My goal is to have this short article be a reminder for people who feel that they are powerless to their ailment. It's easy to give in and accept the idea that you'll just live a life of misery, but the best things in life don't come easily. Changing your routines and habits may be all you need to feel more at ease throughout the day and ultimately throughout your life. Depression and anxiety don't define who you are as a person -- unless you let them.