Weeks after I came home from my stay at the mental hospital, I compiled an ongoing list of what my hospitalization has taught me. It always lifts my spirits to remind myself of these, and I hope they lift yours too.

Since my hospitalization, I have learned...

• Loving yourself is the first step to doing anything. Before having healthy, deep relationships and friendships, you need to love yourself first.
• Don't hurt/damage your body. It's simply a home for you. If you "hate" yourself, don't take it out on your innocent body. All it does is protect you. Instead, sit down and have a deep talk with your soul.
• We are human. We will feel sad, stupid, anxious, depressed. We will also feel happy, content, excited, and peaceful. Don't only shine the light on the negative emotions. It all balances out. Life always balances out.
• Life will always be "hard." There will never be a "perfect" moment in life. There will always be something "unpleasant" to me. Instead of focusing on worry after worry, relax, smile, and just live life.
• You should never not be working towards self-improvement.
• Treat yourself fairly. We deserve just as much love and care that we would give to somebody else. You matter just as much.
• It's easy to transform your body and start eating healthy. It's 100% a choice and completely up to you. When you see the hard work pay off, you come to a realization that you have complete control over your body.
• You should never have to feel uncomfortable or not good enough for anyone. You need to remove yourself from those situations. They are not healthy.
• No matter what, at the end of the day we should be so grateful for the amazing people around us. Gratitude is the most powerful emotion. Always root back to gratitude.