May is Mental Health Awareness Month which is a topic near and dear to my heart. With the corresponding news stories, social media posts and other news coverage it occurs to me - who cares? At its most basic, awareness literally means "knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists." So why is awareness … Continue reading Why May is so Damn Important
Anxiety
Alone in the Crowd
Did you know that anxiety disorders can make someone feel like they don't belong? That's what I felt and I've heard from others who feel the same way. I struggled for years knowing I had an anxiety disorder which made me feel like I was the only one and I didn't belong. See, anxiety disorders … Continue reading Alone in the Crowd
Real Anxiety Stories from Real People
Anxiety disorders are more common than we may think, but since it is silent and not easily visible we often think we are alone. While there are 40 million Americans diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, with many more who have not been diagnosed not including children! We are not alone in this, and I have … Continue reading Real Anxiety Stories from Real People
Why Key Supports Help with Anxiety Disorders
Having key people in your life at the ready has been critical for my success living with anxiety and just may help you too. When you have an anxiety disorder it can seem like you’re the only one that does. I am here to tell you that is not the case…I have an anxiety disorder … Continue reading Why Key Supports Help with Anxiety Disorders
Observations from the Mic
Last Thursday I spoke at a People Tree event, sharing my experience with anxiety within the theme of the event, "Comfort Zones." Specifically I shared recent aspects of my history with anxiety ranging from hospitalization, why I shifted from my prior comfort zone of avoidance to now acceptance, and more. As I shared during the … Continue reading Observations from the Mic
Growing through Discomfort
Those of us with anxiety disorders tend to steer away from situations that (we think) will induce high anxiety or panic. Here is why you should not avoid discomfort and what you can do to grow stronger. I have lived with anxiety for most of my life and it grew worse with age. I avoided … Continue reading Growing through Discomfort
