Having a deep, emotional conversation is difficult for most. I understand that struggle, but I have set a late New Year's resolution to try to connect better with myself and others. My plans are to emotionally connect myself with the world more, because I tend to bottle my emotions. If something bothers me, I shove that thought into a bottle and throw it away. I know that is not healthy, so I am trying not to do that.

1. Talk about what is bothering me.

For example, if a friend is unknowingly hurting my feelings, then I would communicate what it is that they are doing to hurt me and find a resolution. Yes, that is easier said than done. But, I am going to start with small things.

2. If I have a problem, even if others can't solve it, I will get it off my chest.

I used to believe that if no one could give me advice on something, then I would just keep it to myself. Like, if my schoolwork and my work schedule are beginning to collide and become a problem, then I wouldn't complain to anyone. Now, to get the frustrations off my chest, I will ask a friend if they are able to listen. If that person is having problems of their own, I don't want to add my frustrations on top of theirs.

3. Try to find an affordable therapist.

Friends and family are not trained professionals. I can not and will not rely on them to get everything off of my mind. Mental health care is expensive, but it is important. Therapy has and continues to be looked down-on. Slowly, but surely, it is being more accepted in society because everyone needs therapy.

This year will be a year of putting my mental health higher on the list of what is important to me. I will no longer bottle-up my feelings and will be more open.