Dear whoever may be struggling,

This letter is for you. You start off feeling alone. Like no ones around, but if they are then they're not listening. You begin wanting to be alone, even when people try to include you in things. It's hard for you to find love in things you once did. It's hard for you to do things you once wanted to do no matter rain or shine. The people you love, become the people you loved. The people you were close to become strangers. You didn't want it to be this way, but it's what happened. They don't accept your apologies and you don't understand why. The scenario I just introduced to you is my everyday life, my life with depression and anxiety. I know what it's like to be in your spot. I've fought and fought for the last 20 years. I've had my battles with my demons, some of these I almost lost. I've yelled for help, but no one came. I've spent endless nights crying and begging to God to just take me. I know what it's like to feel worthless, alone, confused, and scared. Nights when the only comfort I could find was in seeing myself bleed. The only time I felt alive, was the time I had to prove to myself I was with pain. I've starved myself for a week straight, only drinking water and chewing gum. getting to the point to when I could eat again, it was one meal a day, and that meal consisted only of mashed potatoes. So, here we go.

Anxiety

If you're dealing with anxiety, try this. Close your eyes. Imagine you're somewhere you feel comfortable. One deep breath in, then out. Relax your shoulders, calm your breathing. One more deep breath in, then out. Repeat this a total of 10 times. Then open your eyes. Look around. Take a sip of water, it will help open your throat. Then another breath. Remember you have the ability to beat this attack.

Depression

If you're dealing with depression and tried getting help or you're too scared to get help, know things get better. You may not see the light today and maybe you won't see it tomorrow, but in time things do get better. Find your escape, whether that be through writing, singing, running, or anything you love to do. Once you find your get away, you'll notice a positive change.

Eating Disorder

If you're dealing with any type of eating disorder, know you can beat it. You're greater than the voice in your head telling you you're not good enough. With work and will you will see progress. Just know you're not alone in this, so you don't have to fight it alone.

Self Harm

If you deal with self harming, you have to know that your fight is not over. Day in and day out, you must fight. Fight to overcome, fight for recovery. Before you can achieve anything, you must want everything. Most of all, tell yourself "I got this."

"It's always darkest before the dawn." You've got this. You are not alone. You will get through this.

Mental Health Hotline- Anxiety, Depression, PTSD etc. nowmentalhealth.com

(855)470-8189