“There can be miracles when you believe.”

Share your stigma experience.

I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder called “social phobia”, and then depression, for most of my high school years.

I grew up being a very shy girl. It was hard for me to make friends, unless they came one by one. You could not count on me to attend any programs/ activities in school or at church. I had panic attacks whenever I had to face a crowd. Being in huge crowds made me feel like I’m suffocating. I didn’t want to be called out or asked to participate. It was too hard for me. Because of my shyness, I had thoughts of wanting to be invisible (and I was really good at that! ) all the time. I blamed myself for a lot of things.. I lost my sense of self-worth and that got me depressed.

Until such time–after graduating from elementary, that I just told my mom that I didn’t want to go to school anymore.

Bottomline: I graduated from high school.

How did you overcome this experience?

I took anti-depressants prescribed by my Mom, who was also my physician, and agreed to do therapy sessions with her every single day.. I went on an 18-month volunteer work for our church, and learned to speak to a number of strangers each day, even a congregation.

It was also my faith in Jesus Christ and in Heavenly Father, that helped get through each day with a smile.

Help others by sharing a brief, positive message.

You are not alone in your struggles. Do not be afraid to seek help.

Each day of my life is a leap of faith. There can be miracles when you believe.