Sometimes, life gets hard. Things go wrong, people get busy, things become overwhelming, or you just feel down. That’s okay. We all get a little lost or down or overwhelmed sometimes, and it can be difficult to deal with things like this. Here is a note to anyone struggling with a breakup, moving away from home, loss, missing someone, a tough school year, or anything else:

To Anyone Struggling,

I know it’s what everyone says, and you’ve probably heard it before, but you’re not alone. You don’t have to get through this on your own. You definitely have someone who can be there for you if you reach out because everyone has someone, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. You have a friend or a family member or maybe even a casual acquaintance who can be there for you if you ask. The hardest part is reaching out, but people will be responsive when you need them. That’s something I’ve learned throughout my life. When things get hard, everyone has someone who is there for him or her, so you are not in this alone. Talk to that person about how you’re feeling, or seek help elsewhere, like at health services on campus, a local clinic, or a psychiatrist. It might be easier than you think, and you’ll feel better once you let it out.

Things get tough sometimes. That’s normal. Especially as the semester rolls on, schoolwork gets overwhelming, friends seem to become more distant, and it can feel like you’re on your own. But that’s all a part of life. You’re always going to have a lot of work to do, and you can’t expect to have all the time in the world to hang out with your friends. Things get tough, and that’s okay because they don’t stay tough forever. I frequently hear the saying “Nothing lasts forever,” and it’s true. Nothing, including pain and sadness, is eternal. There will be breaks, and there will be relief. Don’t waste your energy upsetting yourself over a difficult situation; “good things come to those who wait.” Your time of happiness and relaxation will come soon enough. Trust me.

One of my favorite sayings is: “Everything happens for a reason.” I believe this statement wholeheartedly. I think that obstacles and people are put in our lives at specific times to teach us something and to help us grow as individuals. Every tough situation we are put into is there to teach us something about ourselves and help us become who we are ultimately meant to be. So everything going “wrong” in your life is actually going exactly how it’s supposed to go; it is meant to be that way to teach you a lesson that you will carry for the rest of your life. No one has a perfect life, but we all have the life that was meant for us to live.

Find ways to center yourself and calm yourself down before you reach your breaking point. You can do this; you can get through it. Listen to music, color, draw, paint, write, practice deep breathing, scream into a pillow, or go for a run. All of these things help to relieve stress and help you feel calmer. Most of them work for me when I’m stressed or sad or just not feeling like myself. Sleep can also help, but try not to sleep the day away because this could exacerbate your feelings. You can make it through this; you just need to find a way to deal with what comes your way.

You’re doing better than you think. You’re right where you’re supposed to be at this moment in time. Everything will be okay. I believe in you, and I’m sure there are a lot of other people who do, too. You’re an awesome person, and you have the strength to handle whatever you might face. Believe in yourself, and you can accomplish anything.

Stay strong. I’m always here if you need me.

Emilie