I invited people to share their mental health stories in the hope that I could demonstrate that so many people from all walks of life suffer with their mental health.

Candice Williams, 23, got in touch to share her journey.

If you’d like to write about your mental health story on my blog, please follow this link and fill out the form.

Candice’s Story

I have always been an anxious person but I can’t pin point what has caused me to become anxious. Leaving my house for work fills me up with dread; my palms get sweaty, I start to stutter sometimes… oh and I have to use the bathroom (TMI, I know sorry).

When I did go out, I would drink… a lot. Just so I wouldn’t think of the issues that were bothering me.

I got a car almost a year ago and I still get nervous behind the wheel. I am a cautious driver but I do find myself holding my breath a lot especially when I am driving.

I used to have bouts of depression during my time at university and prior. I isolated myself completely, I stopped visiting my family, I would spend all my time in my bedroom. When I did go out, I would drink… a lot. Just so I wouldn’t think of the issues that were bothering me.

Although, I believe I have overcome depression through the help of counselling, I do suffer from anxiety. I suffer from insomnia, my appetite has jumped ship and my mood swings are erratic.

I am still in counselling and know the tools that I need to use in order to improve my self care routine. I have come so far and I have far left to go but I am on my way!

Did you get any treatment for your mental health?

I am currently in long term counselling to overcome my anxiety. Counselling has worked well for me. I find that talking and writing does make me feel at ease.

I have tried to go to visit my doctor to talk about my mental health but I get scared! I have tried a couple of times before but I have been dismissed every time I begin to talk about it so it deterred me from discussing my anxiety. I find it easier to talk to my doctor about everything else except from my mental health.

If you are experiencing anxiety and depression, talk to a loved one if you can.

What advice would you give other people suffering from the same condition as you?

Everyone has had an experience with anxiety. If you are experiencing anxiety and depression, talk to a loved one if you can.

Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the symptoms you have been experiencing. It may be worth researching low fee and/or free counselling services in your area.

If at any point, you feel like you have no one to talk to. Feel free to send me a message. I am always here to listen. Take care of yourself.

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Thanks for sharing your story Candice!