Anonymous
Photo by Bryce Richter
If you’re reading this, speak up.
As far back as I can remember, my entire life has been a relentless cycle of comparing myself to others. It did not matter if I was measuring myself against one of my five siblings or scrolling through the curated lives of strangers on social media; I was always caught up in the comparison game.
This constant self-scrutiny meant that I never truly felt at ease or confident in who I was. I was always preoccupied with how others might perceive me, never quite able to escape the shadow of those comparisons. Like any human being this constant comparison led to many tests of my mental health.
At the age of 15 during quarantine, I was starving myself with only the image of my body to keep me occupied during such a scary and stressful time in our world. I also have struggled with anxiety attacks alone in my room after a drunken night out with a feeling of impending doom. I have always known that I struggled with mental health no matter how good at hiding it I may be.
However, what I have always yearned for is to be reassured that everything will turn out all right. After countless hours spent in tears, pouring my heart out into journals, and deeply reflecting on my thoughts, I have come to realize that reassurance. I understand now that my struggles are not unique to me; many others face similar challenges. It has become clear that one of the most profound ways to foster personal growth is through connecting with others and sharing our experiences. Through these conversations, I have discovered that even my own sisters and my mother have grappled with the very same issues I have faced. This shared understanding has not only been comforting but has also highlighted the importance of open dialogue in overcoming personal hurdles.
This understanding has been both comforting and empowering. It shows me that I am not alone in my struggles and that sharing experiences can truly aid in healing. By connecting with others and recognizing our familiar challenges, I feel more hopeful and resilient. Moving forward, I will continue to seek and offer support, knowing that together we can find strength and encouragement.
Anonymous, University of Wisconsin
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