A Letter To Myself On Bad Mental Health Days

Hey you,

I’m so proud. I’m proud that you got out of bed even though you’re mentally exhausted. I know the brain fog feels like it’s overwhelming but it will subside. In the words of Ariana Grande, “Just keep breathin’, breathin’, and breathin’”. You know meditation and yoga also work wonders.

You are a healthy young adult, you are most likely not having a heart attack. You are stronger than your anxiety and your negative thoughts. Focus on the people that love you and focus on what you have ahead of you. Make a list of everything that you are grateful for. Don’t let your anxiety take over you, acknowledge that it’s there but don’t let it overwhelm you. Repeat after me, “I know I am anxious but it will not take over me.” Anxiety cannot physically hurt you, it can make you feel like you’re dying but you are not.

You are extremely creative and intelligent. Use that creativity to your benefit. Throw yourself into a new project and let your mind wander with thoughts on how to make yourself a better photographer, filmmaker, and writer. You don’t have to figure it all out right now. That’s not how life works. 

If you’re at work, take a breather. You might be doing too much too fast. You will be more productive if you calm down for a second. Name three things in the room, and describe them to yourself. What is their color? Their shape? How do they feel? Trust me it will help keep your mind occupied.

No matter what, remember that you are supposed to be in this world. You have a whole life to live and more people than you can count care about you. You know who cares about you a lot? Your dog. She cuddles with you and can’t wait for you to get home every day. Your friends support you in everything you do, they are always there no matter what. Anxiety will probably never permanently disappear but you can fight it. You are strong. You are resilient. You are not your mental illness. Stay strong, tomorrow is going to be a better day.