IAM1IN4

The little voice that pinpoints all my insecurities and magnifies them. The constant need for background noise to combat all the noise inside my head.

Your goal is to get better, period. Don’t bother arguing with friends or relatives who give you a difficult time. It’s your life – you’re the one suffering.

I recently had a flash of inspiration about things I’ve done despite being riddled with social anxiety. There’s definitely a determined streak in me.

I told every member of staff and both of my psychiatrists just how evil I thought I was. That I needed locking up with the key thrown away.

Don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams. Don’t be ashamed of what you want, no matter how unconventional. If the road ahead looks difficult, don’t give up.

I am DONE with the heartache and drama and upset and stress. DONE with the fucking turmoil. I am DONE with inconsistencies, DONE with hot and cold.

Just like everything in life, you have your good counselors and you have your not so great counselors. The key is to find one that will help you solve your current mental health problems.

What is causing this sudden spike in anxiety and depression in teens? It has become a frightening epidemic over the last few years, but why?

Splitting behaviour is one of the identifying characteristics of borderline personality disorder. It means seeing things in either black or white.

Please look out for your friends and family who are struggling. Ask the question, ‘Have you thought about killing yourself?’

Be understanding and patient with the person struggling with their fears. Dealing with depression and anxiety is difficult, so do not add more problems.

I’m here to talk as candidly as I can bring myself to, as a cathartic aid to my recovery and in hope that I might comfort others in their experiences.

The lows can be low but highs will always be higher. Flowers cannot bloom without a little rain. Trust me, you’re here for a reason. Keep fighting.

I intend to keep fighting. For my own mental health yes, but for others too. I want there to be a day when people don’t call me brave for sharing my story.

It takes courage to talk about how you feel when you’re battling mental illness. Your mental illness does not define you.

In those dark moments, I wanted to switch off the light. But, I promise you, I am glad I failed. IT DOES GET BETTER. You grow stronger.

Is it okay to be angry at someone who struggles with mental illness? It’s a feeling of deep hurt that twists my stomach into knots.