Hi, Blurt Fam!
When I experienced a panic attack at school due to my severe anxiety, that was the time I started to become depressed. Since I was so young back then, I didn't know how to deal with anxiety and depression. I was hesitant to share it with my family because I knew they would not pay attention to it. I just kept it to myself and fought it silently.
I battled anxiety and depression on my own. Sometimes I shared it with a few trusted friends, but with limitations because I didn't want to be judged. Most of the time, I pretended that I was okay, even though deep down I wanted to tell the world that, "Hey, I am not okay."
When I graduated from college and got a job, I came up with the idea of seeing a psychiatrist because I wanted to heal. As I'll tell you, it was mentally exhausting. However, I soon realized it was costly, even for just one session. I faced a significant financial constraint at that time since I was financing my younger brother's education. I struggled with both the mental and financial aspects. I found myself in a challenging situation.
So, what I did was I tried to figure out things that genuinely make me happy, so I could be distracted from the negative forces. But first, I built a strong relationship with God. I'm not the religious type, but I have faith in God that whatever challenges come my way, He will be there to help me. Therefore, I believe that my greatest weapon is prayer.
Walking barefoot on the beach is therapeutic, so most of my weekends are spent there. While at the beach, I realized that life is similar to the beach itself—no matter how many times the strong waves crash into it, the beach remains strong and beautiful. That's how I train my mind; whatever challenges life presents, I strive to stay strong. I don't let fear overwhelm my mindset; instead, I cultivate optimism.
Did you know that I have collected many beautiful and inspiring quotes, which I've written in my notebook? I read them whenever I'm attacked by anxiety, and they prove to be helpful.
Lastly, I read books, with most of them being self-help books. Books are my great influencers and constant companions. I also visit places that offer tranquility—places that give me so much peace of mind.
I hope this will be helpful to someone who has experienced the same. I can now say that I am okay. That's it for today, Blurt Fam.