You Are Not Alone
When I was younger, I never imagined that my life would be shadowed by depression and anxiety. These feelings crept in slowly, making me question my worth and my place in the world. I often felt isolated, as if no one could truly understand the weight I was carrying. However, as I began to peel back the layers of my mental health struggles, I discovered a web of influences, including my family's history and indications that these difficulties were not sudden. This journey of self-discovery and acceptance has been incredibly challenging, but it has also been a path toward healing and growth.
It all began with a conversation that I had been avoiding for years. One evening, I sat down with my mom to discuss my battles with anxiety and depression. I told her how confused and conflicted I felt experiencing these emotions and why I felt like I was the only person coping with it. As we delved into the topic, I could see the concern in her eyes. She shared her own battles with depression, recounting the dark days she had faced. My mom also spoke about my grandmother, who fights both anxiety and depression throughout her life, and my grandfather, who continues to battle bipolar depression. I should also say that I am fully aware that not everyone experiences this. Mental ailments can arise from anything and anyone. However, hearing these stories made me realize that my mental health struggles were not just a personal burden but a continuation of a familial pattern. This revelation was both daunting and enlightening, helping me understand that my fight was not just my own but something deeply rooted in my family’s history.
So, me and mom discussed a psychiatric evaluation and therapy. Deciding to start therapy was a significant step, but it was one filled with apprehension and fear. The stigma associated with mental health made me hesitate. It was not something I wanted to discuss or make public. I was afraid of being criticized, misunderstood, or perceived as weak, particularly by my friends and family. I mean, I was the Nadia that was constantly smiling, mending things, and being there for you. I didn't have the time or energy to care about myself, let alone tell people that I was hurting.
Walking into my therapist’s office for the first time, I was filled with anxiety, but with time, I found there was a safe space where I could express myself without fear of judgment. Through our sessions, my therapist provided me with tools to navigate my emotions and develop healthier thought patterns. I learned to identify and challenge negative thoughts, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. The support and guidance I received in therapy were transformative. I began to understand myself better and gain a newfound confidence. I am aware that everyone's experience with therapy is unique, sometimes traumatic, sometimes revolutionary. But for me, it was a lifeline. It taught me that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward healing and self-discovery.
However, therapy was just one part of the equation. A lot of people think that "if we just send them to therapy they'll be fine right?". Wrong. Yes, therapy is an important tool for learning how to manage and combat mental health issues, but it is not the only one. Emotional support from friends and family has been crucial in my journey. Their unwavering encouragement and understanding reminded me that I was not alone. My friends and family have been my rock, providing a shoulder to lean on during the tough times and celebrating the small victories with me. With their support, I began to rebuild my self-confidence. I began doing things that I truly enjoyed, versus solely those that helped me blend in with society. I established small, attainable goals and appreciated even the smallest accomplishments. I felt so empowered to approach every day with a fresh sense of optimism and strength.
This fall, I am starting college, a fresh start filled with excitement and apprehension. Many of us entering college share similar feelings—it's a time of significant transition and unknowns. The fight against anxiety is never truly over; it’s a continuous journey that we carry with us. Moving to a new environment, meeting new people, and facing academic challenges are all daunting, but they also provide the chance for development and new insights. I remind myself to embrace the journey, with all its ups and downs. College is an opportunity to redefine myself, explore my passions, and build a future that excites me. And for those of us who choose a different road, know that it's okay. No matter where life leads you—the military, trade school, the workforce, or internships—changes may be both frightening and exhilarating, but a new chapter always begins.
From the beginning, I have dedicated myself to supporting and loving every beautiful individual for who they are. Mental health struggles should never be an excuse to hold back from living and loving to the fullest. It’s essential to recognize our worth and the worth of those around us, regardless of the battles we face. This belief has driven me to be there for my friends and family, to lend a listening ear and a helping hand whenever needed. It has also driven me to advocate for mental health awareness and support. I want to be a voice for those who feel unheard, to let them know that they are not alone and that there is always hope.I mean, why do you think I wrote this article? Why am I so involved in this organization, sharing my story and listening to others? I’ve learned that there is strength in vulnerability and that by sharing our experiences, we can create a supportive community.
Understanding the genetic factors, seeking therapy, building emotional support, and embracing new life chapters have all been integral to my recovery. But above all, knowing that I am not alone has provided me with the strength to continue fighting and striving for a brighter future. I know that there will be challenges ahead, but I am also confident that I have the tools and support I need to face them. I am determined to continue advocating for mental health, to support and love those around me unconditionally. To whoever’s reading this. Yes.. you. This journey is anything but easy, but it will make you stronger, more resilient, and more compassionate. Please hear me when I say, you are not alone. You are never alone.
