Dear Stress,

These past couple weeks have been pretty good for you. For me, though, not so much. After getting back from winter break, you've been clinging to me, refusing to let go for any reason. I don't appreciate it. With class, projects, homework, meetings, work, figuring out housing and other extracurricular activities, I feel like I have no time to breathe. I can feel your weight on my shoulders each morning as I wake up and go to class. You're heavy and consuming, feeding off of my anxiety until I break. Because of you, I have cried so many tears in the past couple weeks. Just when I begin to feel all cried out, you creep up and make the tears flow. Why do you have to be such a pain? It's not appreciated at all.

Even though it seems like I can't shake you off, I know I have to. I can't let you control me anymore. I simply won't allow it. I know you don't like not being in control, but it's time for me to take back my life and stop you from dictating how I feel. I hate feeling anxious all of the time because I simply feel like I don't have enough time. You have caused so many problems, but now it's time to say goodbye.

This isn't a final goodbye. I know I can't get rid of you that easily. It's a goodbye for now. At this point in my life I don't need you in control. I have to deal with me without any help from you. I can't have you looming over me anymore. I have to have room to breathe.

Goodbye, Stress. You are a terrible companion and it's time for us to cut ties. You're done making me anxious and worried. You're not needed here anymore.

Sincerely,

Lauren