“I felt like I lived in a bubble that needed to be popped.”

What kind of stigma did you experience/observe?

All my life I have suffered from anxiety and depression. I was able to handle it somewhat as a child but not all the time. I felt like I lived in a bubble that needed to be popped. Some days were ok and others I just wanted to die. I experience a lot of emotional distress as a child and I have dealt with it all my life. My family always thought I was strange, but they never understood. I just want people to understand it’s nothing to be ashamed of, and it can be treated.

How did you overcome this experience?

I finally decided to go to the doctor and do something about it. I tried several different antidepressants and finally got the right dose and I take it every day. I feel some much better and I can think more clearly and make better life decisions.

Help others by sharing a brief, positive message.

Stay strong and seek help. There is nothing to be ashamed of. Find someone you can talk to, a professional that thinks outside of your life and can give you a different outlook on your life. Taking your meds is most important and finding that balance.