The Invisible Battle

In a world where we are constantly being watched and criticized by classmates, coworkers, and especially social media platforms... life can sometimes feel overwhelming. The truth is, anxiety and depression live in far more individuals that we know or realize. Over 40 million people suffer from anxiety. I am sure the feeling of being anxious is something we have all experienced, now imagine it consuming your life. It becomes a daily and constant battle to just live a normal life.

Sometimes there comes a breaking point. Whether it is you or someone you know, this is not something to feel ashamed of. You are more than capable of overcoming the daily battles you face. This too, does not make you any less in anything you do. It also does not change your worth. Everyone struggles with different things in their lives and it is okay if it looks different than someone else's battle. It is easy to jump to conclusions and compare, but understand that your battles are not the same and everyone deals with things differently. Allow yourself to feel things and to recognize when you are truly not okay.

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If someone you know suffers with anxiety, be a listening ear, be kind, and do not be detrimental. Avoid telling them that they're just overthinking or that whatever is happening is not a big deal... recognize that they did not necessarily choose to feel that way just as they did not chose to have anxiety.

Remember that you cannot change a person and you cannot force another person to openly seek help if they do not want to. Encourage them and help them get to that point, but doing it for them will bring resentment and more negative results than positive. Let them make the decision to want to seek help.

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If you are dealing with anxiety yourself, you are not alone. You are more than just what the label of 'anxiety' tells the world you are. Your feelings are completely valid. While it is hard to struggle with anxiety in a society that constantly throws how we should be, what we should be, who we should be, do not be fooled by what you see superficially. Remember, there is always more than what you see of another person.

Every person is different, just as every anxiety type is different. Some ways to manage and cope might work for you that might not work for others or vice versa and that is completely okay!

Lastly, it is important to note that therapy and counseling are not a bad thing! There are a list of things people go to these for and they are not limited to just anxiety. Going to therapy or counseling does not mean that 'there is something wrong with you.' Lets help break the stigma and silence regarding these things!

If you struggle with anxiety, I hope this has served as a reminder that you're not alone. If you're someone who has a close friend or loved one that struggles with anxiety, I hope this has served as your reminder to check up on them today.

Thank you all for visiting once again! Come back soon.