Throughout my middle school and high school years, I've struggled immensely with anxiety and depression. For the longest time, I had no idea how to channel the pent up anger and sadness I had, so I let it out in terribly self-destructive ways. It wasn't until I started college that I learned how to cope in healthier ways; although I am on medication for my mental illnesses, I also learned to incorporate the power of prayer, among other things. Here's a list of some of my favorite verses for the anxious or fearful heart:

1) Isaiah 43:2

"...When you go through deep waters, I will be with you..."

During times of trouble and heartache, this is a verse I would constantly turn to. This verse reminds me that no matter what I'm going through, God is always with me.

2) Psalms 56:3

"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you."

Life can be so scary sometimes-- you just want to run away, and it feels like you can't trust anyone or anything. This verse reminds me that God always has a better plan in store for me.

3) Romans 8:31

"If God is for us, who can be against us?"

Lately, I've been doing a lot of soul searching and getting rid of toxic people in my life, (shout out to you, "best friend" in Tennessee), and it's been super tough. It feels like everyone in the world is against you and you can't figure out why, or what you did wrong. Dropping friendships and relationships is emotionally draining, but this verse assures you that no matter what people say or think about you, God is always rooting for you, and is always on your side.

4) Romans 8:18

"The pain that you've been feeling can't compare to the joy that's coming."

No matter what you're going through right now-- whether it's a breakup, a lost friendship, anxiety, depression, you name it-- just know that you will get through it, and things will get better. The amount of pain and suffering you've been enduring is nothing compared to the great things that are going to happen in your life.

As someone who has struggled a lot with mental illness, these verses helped me so much. They helped me realize that I do have something to live for, and I shouldn't give up on that.