Anxiety. Yes, I struggle with anxiety. Phew, that feels like a weight lifted! But wait—why don’t I feel lighter? Why is it still a taboo subject? It seems I’m expected to cope in silence or confide only in a therapist. But then, is seeking therapy a sign of weakness? My life appears picture-perfect; what could I possibly be anxious about?
Over the past year, my family has experienced a mix of blessings and challenges. My eldest, Emily, is excelling academically, my partner and I both received promotions, and my middle child stopped being a constant source of chaos. Yet, amidst these positives, we faced significant heartbreak when we learned that my mother’s health was deteriorating. This has been the toughest year of my life, and my anxiety has skyrocketed as a result. Ladies, I need to talk about it. Why? Because I can’t navigate this alone!
How often have you shared your struggles with someone who understands? Opening up doesn’t make us weak; it makes us resilient. Seeking help is a mark of humanity. As Brené Brown states in Daring Greatly: “True belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world.” I am far from perfect. I bite my nails, raise my voice, and yes, indulge in too much wine at times. Yet, through it all, I know I am a devoted mom. In fact, my anxiety has made me a more empathetic parent.
My oldest daughter, Emily, has begun to exhibit signs of anxiety herself. She has become physically ill after disappointing grades, and when my partner and I are too critical, she reacts with distress. My experiences with anxiety allow me to better support her during these moments. I can sit with her for hours, rubbing her back or simply being present without overwhelming her. I don’t always get it right, but my patience stems from my own battles.
Meanwhile, my middle child, Lily, struggles with feeling unheard. When she becomes overwhelmed, her breathing accelerates. I’ve learned that making eye contact and sharing deep breaths can help calm her down. I hope my youngest, Mia, remains free from anxiety, but I’m ready to support her if she needs it.
When I experience a panic attack, I’ve learned to communicate my feelings to those around me. This allows me to step back and focus on my breathing without worrying about judgment. Since I started sharing my experiences with friends, family, and coworkers, I’ve felt an incredible surge of support. It’s liberating to be vulnerable about my anxiety, far better than hiding away and crying silently.
I wish every workplace prioritized mental health as mine does. However, I’ve encountered those who dismiss anxiety, insisting that it can be conquered through sheer will. But mental health is complex, often involving chemical imbalances that require understanding and compassion. Instead of suggesting what others should do, we should ask, “How can I help?” or better yet, offer specific assistance like, “I’m bringing over coffee—what’s your favorite kind of cream cheese?”
During a panic attack, I can choose to indulge in jalapeño cream cheese, but I struggle to articulate what I need from others. While it’s kind to ask how one can help, a more impactful approach is to take the initiative to support them.
By sharing my own struggles, I’ve experienced an overwhelming sense of community. Friends and family have stepped up, offering support and understanding when I need it most. Confronting mental health issues isn’t a sign of weakness; rather, embracing and discussing them is a courageous step toward healing. If you’re grappling with anxiety and lack support, please reach out to someone—whether it’s me or another trusted individual. Sharing my journey has been transformative, and I encourage you to do the same if it feels right for you.
A heartfelt thank you to my friends and family for your unwavering support. I appreciate you all.
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Summary
Opening up about anxiety has empowered me and strengthened my relationships. Sharing my experiences fosters support and understanding, reminding us that vulnerability is not a flaw but a path to healing. Embracing mental health discussions is crucial, and I encourage anyone struggling with anxiety to seek support.