#ThingsMyAnxietySaidICouldn'tDo

I would like to present to you "things my anxiety told me I couldn't do" or "anxiety is a liar"

1. Make phone calls.
2. Order in a drive through by myself.
3. Walk across the main quad on campus.
4. Talk to a stranger.
5. Compliment a stranger.
6. Pray out loud.
7. Pray for others.
8. Leave a comment on a blog or YouTube video.
9. Breathe.
10. Ask a question in class.
11. Answer a question in class.
12. Workout in the school fitness center.
13. Give a 25 minute class presentation on behalf of a group.
14. Where socks under my Chocos wherever I want.
15. Play any sports.
16. Text a friend.
17. Apply for a job.
18. Be a leader.
19. Sit through interviews.
20. Conduct interviews.
21. Share my opinion in small groups.
22. Sing in a car with people I don't know super well.
23. Drive on the interstate.
24. Get my lisence.
25. Be in a picture.
26. Recieve a compliment.
27. Kill a bug. 
28. Confront someone.
29. Tell someone I like them.
30. Make friends.
31. Tell people what I want to do in my life.
32. Go on a plane.
33. Go on a cruise.
34. Share anything personal.
35. Admit my struggles.
36. Talk to a doctor.
37. Ask for help.
38. Begin taking anxiety medication after a series of panic attacks.

Anxiety lies. It's controlling, and it's a bully. It sucks for those that have it, and those that are around them. All these things, and others, have been difficult for me. Some of them still are. I basically have to script out phone calls with strangers before I can call. I can order at sonic, because I can see inside, it have only ever ordered at a drive through by myself one other time in my life. I've flown on planes, and plan to ride on more, but I still avoid sports. Anxiety doesn't have to rule your life. Mental illness, what ever it may be, doesn't have to be a silent battle. Letting others in can be terrifying. Medication is not the best option for everyone, but don't let stigmas or fear of judgement hold you back from recieving the help you need.