Since Bell's "Let's Talk" campaign has strived to rise awareness about mental illness, I would like to finally be open about my own experiences with my own mental health. Since I was twelve going on thirteen, I have struggled with depression and anxiety. I did not want to acknowledge that I was ill until last March, when I finally received an official diagnosis after going through a particularly painful period in my life. It was a relief to realize that I was not crazy for feeling cripplingly sad for such a long period of time. It helped me to realize that the only way I could take better care of myself was to ask for help when I needed it. And thanks to the unconditional love and support that I received from my friends, boyfriend, and family members, I was able to confront my problems head on. In 2016, although it was a rough year for many reasons, it was also the year when I decided to start loving myself again, flaws and all. Even though some days are harder than others, I feel a thousands times better than I had in the years before my diagnosis. Thus, the reason I want to share my experiences was because there are millions of people who live with mental illness every day and, due to the stigma, are forced to bottle up their pain to keep on a facade, like how I did it in the past. Let me tell you, that is not healthy for anyone, and I want people who are struggling to know that it is okay not to feel great all the time. It is better to be authentic about your well being and to seek help when you need it rather than to pretend things are okay when they are obviously not. I am also a strong believer in the strength of compassion, and if I can have people in my life who want me to be safe and healthy, I am sure that there are people who only want to see their loved ones happy and healthy as well. Let's diminish the stigma and shame surrounding mental illness and let's strive to create a community where we can help care for one another. Much love to the beloved people who fight against mental illness every day, and who allow their achievements and good character, not their illnesses, define who they truly are. Now, let's all heal together 🖤
