Anxiety. Just saying that I need to be somewhere that a large group of people will also be, will make my skin crawl and my stomach turn. I realize that it's irrational, but I also know that at the same time, it makes sense. So many other people in this day and age are being diagnosed with diseases, not because there're more cases, but because our understanding has improved.

Today especially, it's hard to find someone without some sort of mental disorder, whether it be depression, anxiety, ADD or ADHD. These are just some tips that I've learned along the way to help me deal with my social anxiety.

It's important to remember that you are, in fact, not the only one feeling this way. People telling me what I already know doesn't help, but I've found that actually looking around and trying to find parts of myself in other people does. Several of my friends also suffer from some form of anxiety, and I've found that going somewhere with backup also really helps.

In the words of Steven Universe's Garnet, 'Take a moment to find yourself.' Because this isn't how you fall apart. You're stronger than your anxiety, it doesn't define you. It's all going to be okay. Everything that's bothering you right now, that's in your head is just that. It's just a thought. You are not your anxiety, it does not define you.

Another thing to remember is that you're the only person who controls you. Your friends are not the boss of you. Your family isn't the boss of you.

If you find yourself having a panic attack, it's really important to get out of there as soon as possible. The number one concern is your mental health. If you have one at work, they'll understand. They don't want you to snap at a guest/customer after all. Just take a moment for yourself to find yourself amongst your thoughts. Because like I said before, that's all they are. Just thoughts, floating aimlessly. Even if it feels like they're swarming, flooding your mind, it's okay. Just breathe. It'll all be okay. Even if it doesn't feel like it in the moment. It will be.