I have had to navigate Traumatic Stress Disorder from an early age. It has not been easy, but with the help of family and medical professionals I have been able to make strides along the way.
Trying to stay ahead of a condition that can be incredibly unpredictable can be daunting at times, but I am grateful for small victories and moments where I feel in control. Countless days have been filled with self-care and therapy to move forward in life without as much fear.
I’ve come up with strategies that help me regulate my emotions during difficult situations or periods of intense anxiety. Keeping a journal with my thoughts and feelings has allowed me to recognize patterns so I can adjust how I think and work beforehand. Deep breathing exercises are also invaluable tools as they allow me to reconnect with my body when overwhelmed by a stressful situation.
Even though there will always be moments where it feels like the odds are against me, surrounding myself with supportive people who care about my well-being helps alleviate some of the darkness that can linger under the surface. Talking openly about it has also enabled me take ownership of my own mental health in order for it not to overtakes aspects of who I am as an individual.
No matter what struggles arise from living with this condition, being honest is always the answer because after all, only then can you truly move on!