Anonymous

If you’re reading this, I know what it’s like to be overwhelmed by your emotions.

Sometimes it feels like you're trapped in your own mind, and it’s hard to see any way out. I’ve been there, too. There were times when I felt isolated, even when I was surrounded by people. That’s one of the strange things about loneliness—it doesn’t always come from being physically alone. You can be in a crowded room, but feel like no one truly sees or understands you. There were days when it felt like getting out of bed and just facing the day was a huge battle. I would overthink everything, wondering if anyone even cared or if I was just fading into the background.

But over time, I realized that those feelings—though incredibly powerful—were not the whole picture. They weren't permanent. When you're in that space, it feels like the world is closing in on you, but I want you to know that there's always a way forward, even if it doesn’t seem clear right now. For me, reaching out and allowing myself to be vulnerable, even when it was the last thing I wanted to do, made a difference. It was scary and uncomfortable, but talking to someone I trusted helped to lift some of the weight off my chest.

I’m not saying that things magically got better right away. It was a process—a slow one at times—but every small step I took, whether it was opening up to a friend, or seeking a therapist, helped me feel more connected to the world again.

I want you to know that you don’t have to go through this alone, even if it feels that way. You are loved and valued, more than you might realize right now. Sometimes when you’re deep in the fog of depression, it’s hard to see yourself clearly, but from where I stand, I see someone who is strong, resilient, and capable, even on days when you don’t feel like it.

Take things one day at a time. You don’t have to solve everything at once, and it’s okay to have rough days. Be kind to yourself during this time, even if it feels like the hardest thing to do. You deserve compassion and understanding, especially from yourself.

You can get through this. 

Anonymous, University of South Carolina

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