I'm an entertainer. I'm here to make you happy. So, it's not easy for me to open up and be vulnerable about my struggle with anxiety. But on this World Mental Health Day I felt it was important to share my story and hopefully offer some advice to help you or someone you know.

Mental health issues, like anxiety and depression, are so often internalized. There remains a societal stigma that those dealing with similar illnesses are weak and defective. I urge you to never give up on yourself or someone you care for. Be sympathetic to yourself and to others, but most of all, just be THERE. I've sometimes been told that my situation can be exhausting to those who don't understand it, but it's never as taxing to the outside world as it is for the personal living with it. It hurts when you're labeled as 'crazy' or 'unstable'. But you are strong, and YOU are your biggest advocate. Please remind yourself and those around you that they are not alone. There are professionals who want nothing more than you help you improve the quality of your life.

Visit MentalHealthAmerica.net for useful information and free screening tools.

More from SoJO 104.9

 

More From SoJO 104.9 FM