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To the Person Who Feels Ashamed for Struggling So Much

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This is something to remember when your struggle seems too much. I want you to remember this when you are struggling and you feel like giving up.

You are strong. You are brave. You are worthy.

Each time you make it through, each time you fight these thoughts that consume you, you are making it one step closer to recovery.

Recovery takes time.

Whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety, or even the two at once, you are not weak. You are strong for moving forward. You are brave for working through this, and you are worthy of love and support — from the people around you and from yourself.

Struggling with depression and anxiety is hell. It feels like you are lost and there is no way out.

Let me tell you this:

Things will get better. Things will improve, and you will start to feel positive again.

The process may be long and hard, but you can make it through this.

We all can.

Keep putting one foot in front of the other. Keep taking things one day at a time.

If you can’t face the thought of making it through one more day, take it one hour, one minute, one second at a time, but please don’t give up!

I believe in you. I believe you can make it through this.

Please don’t be ashamed for struggling so much. Please never be ashamed.

You are doing the best you can.

Never be ashamed to ask for support. Reach out for support until you are heard. Reach out until you are listened to and you find someone willing to support you through this.

If at first people aren’t willing to listen to you, know that your journey may confuse them or they may be afraid. Don’t let this discourage you.

Keep reaching out until you are heard. Keep reaching out until you receive the support you deserve.

Your journey toward recovery will look different for everyone, and there is no shame in asking for help.

If you or someone you know needs help, visit our suicide prevention resources page. 

If you need support right now, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. 

Lead photo source: Thinkstock Images

Originally published: July 5, 2016
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