I write this today to share my dealings with anxiety. It's a message of positivity, I hope. I want others to know that they are not alone. Trust that you aren't alone in difficult times!

People should strive to do better, be kind and helpful, or just give a smile as you walk down the street. The problem, with me? The things that I strive for elude me very often. It's a difficult concept to be stable when you fight to do the right things and your mental capacity wants to do it's own thing.

I work toward the feeling that I belong when I am in a room of people, in a crowded store, or in the lobby of an office-- then my mind tells me that people are staring at me, someone is out to get me, etc... Paranoia and anxiety weigh heavy on my mind.

What do I do? I open my mental toolbox. I can sometimes find the right tool. Other times, I shut down. The point is to do some of the following:

1. Have a plan to ask yourself clarifying questions about your situation. IE: Why would anyone stare at me? Is anyone a real threat to me?  

2. Have a contact person to speak with on a moment's notice.

3. Find a safe place to give your mind a way to slow your impulses.