We all have our quirks, our interesting characteristics, our differences. For some, those quirks are linked to a personality disorder or mental illness. People tend to say, "just get over it," but you don't, and that makes life that much easier and eases the fears of never being accepted or loved.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

I don't choose to watch my hair fall out due to my severe anxiety. In fact, I would rather it stay attached. Seeing clumps in my trashcan may alarm you, but you never show it. Thank you for not making balding jokes like everyone else. Thank you for continuing to make me feel beautiful after a morning of watching my hair wash down the drain. I don't choose to wake up with migraines after a sleepless night because of worry and stress. My body cramping up and my hands shaking is not my idea of a good time, but you hold my hand and comfort me anyway. Thank you for the neck massages and ice-cream, because you make a difference.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

She does not like to be touched and is afraid share her fries, but you continue to sit across the table and look at her like she is the best thing that has ever happened to you. She turns the lights off three times before walking out the door and turns around three more to make sure her straightener is off. As you walk side by side, you can hear her counting the steps under her breath, but you do not pick on her because she has had enough of that in her life. I promise she notices that you don't get frustrated when she has to wash her hands again or when she is completely consumed with obsessive thoughts. Your quiet strength makes her feel loved, and you make a difference.

Body Dysmorphia

Looking in the mirror and seeing flaws that others say aren't there is crippling. I do not mention a flaw, because I want your attention or for you to tell me it's not there. Well, on second thought, I do want you to say that is not true over and over again because my brain does not understand it is not true. Thank you for pointing out my "flaws" and telling me you love them. Your constant support and encouragement helps me to get out from in front of the mirror and lessens the anxiety of walking through a crowd. You understand that I will never be perfect in my own sight; you make a difference.

Bipolar Disorder

"Are you on your period?" This is the question she hears all day every day. She does not want to have "mood swings," and her emotions rule her life. When she is in the manic stage, you keep her calm and sooth her nerves. When the depressive stage hits, you are there to give her unconditional love and treat her like a princess. She can tell that you are tired but appreciates that you have never given up. Your kindness pulls her through, and you make a difference.

Depression

Being upset or down is not a choice. It is something I have battled through all my life, and getting over it is not as easy as it sounds. Finding the good takes continuous effort, and you get that. Sleeping all day is better than interacting with people, so it is nice that motivational good morning texts are your specialty. Not being able to think or speak is normal, and crying without ruining my makeup is now an art. Thank you for being uplifting and showing me some hope. Thank you for staying even when my attitude is sub-par; you make a difference.

When dating the examples from your psychology textbook, please remember that your efforts do not go unnoticed, and even when it doesn't appear to be so, you really and truly make a difference.