I have been suffering from anxiety for so long; I don’t remember what it’s like to not be in an anxious state of mind 24/7. I cannot remember the last time I was able to make a decision without rethinking it over and over again. It consumes me, no matter what I try to do. I have been put on countless medications, have tried counseling, and have even tried home remedies. These things have helped ease my situation for myself, but the anxiety is always there in my mind. This doesn’t make me weak, though, I still power through. I do my best not to let my anxieties drag me down, and when I look at the big picture, I find comfort in knowing that at least I am learning from my struggles. My anxiety has taught me more about myself and life than anything.

1. Life isn’t perfect, but it does get better.

My anxiety is mostly caused by traumatic events that I was put through. I have had some dark times that I never actually dreamed of recovering from. I am eternally grateful for my friends and loved ones that helped me through my problems, but love does not fix everything. I have spent years learning how to cope with anxiety, and while I may never feel 100% better again, I at least know that I have been improving. It’s a slow process, but after a while things have brightened up.

2. It’s okay to take a moment.

Life is incredibly stressful, and you should never feel guilty for taking a moment for yourself. Take that break; you deserve it. So many things can happen in so little time, life is overwhelming in that sense. Separate yourself from the commotion, get yourself together. The world is not going to stop turning if you take a moment to calm down. You need to do this for yourself.

3. It’s okay to cry.

Crying is essentially my number one hobby. I can probably make crying a sport, and if it were, I would be winning medals left and right. I cry when I am happy, I cry when I am sad, it’s just who I am. No one is going to be upset with you if you allow your tears to show. If they do get upset with you, get rid of them. You do not need that kind of negativity in your life. Never allow anyone to shame you for feeling. All humans are born with emotions whether you are male, female, or anyone. You are allowed to cry, and you are allowed to have feelings. Remember that. Crying is good for you, it releases a lot of stress.

4. Not everyone will understand.

Everyone else’s opinion of you and your mental health are not relevant. What matters is how you feel. The people that matter and the ones that you should keep around will be looking out for you and will ask how things are going for you. A lot of people dismiss anxiety as if it’s nothing, but unfortunately is a huge something that has been taking our nation by storm. Do not feel dismissed, associate yourself with people that are in it for the long haul. They tend to be better friends, regardless.

5. If you’re going to kick your ass, at least do it for the right reasons.

With my anxiety, I get worked up over making a mistake on an exam, saying the wrong thing, doing something silly, and hearing certain things. I shouldn’t be dwelling on this stuff; I know that. If I am kicking my ass, I need to be productive. Do not let the anxiety win, get out of bed. Take that shower, and brush your damn hair. Anxiety sucks, but don’t let it cripple you. Get out of bed and do your best. I can’t even count how many days I wasted in bed because I let my mental health get the best of me. Push your limits, take care of yourself. You are loved, you are important, and your anxiety does not and never will define you.