Over the years, I have received commendations for managing anxiety. I am brave when doing things, I know I can achieve. Often, it is only after the fact that I realize certain actions are necessary. These actions become essential for daily living. That’s when I actually put what needs to be done into action. Those first moments are undoubtedly challenging. There can be tendencies to want to cave and avoid what needs to be done. Still, I stay brave and strong and do it when my anxiety says no.

It has been a long time and many things have changed to make be choose braver instead of avoidance. I understand it is just my anxiety. I reassure myself that everything will indeed be fine. It has taken time to understand and accept that things are going to be that way. I find ways to know and cope with things. This helps me understand the who, what, when, why, and how when it is possible.

There are still times when this does not work. It causes me to second-guess myself. I wonder whether something is going to happen the way I wanted it to happen. Anxiety can often lead to worrying about failure or causing a problem. I had to understand that it’s crucial to have what I need to cope in the best way. This assures that everything is in place. It makes certain that things can happen as they need to. This gives me the reassurance to be brave and know I can do it.

Medication has been a big help in curtailing my anxiety. Contrary to what I believed about the other medications I was battling, I have always known its importance. The medication I use to help my anxiety makes life more manageable. It takes off the edges of what I used to face. It has been my rock in helping me get through life. Hopefully, I can continue to see that the other medications help with other things. I continue to see that too. It works in its own way, just like the one medication for my anxiety helps me in its own way.

Ultimately it takes courage and confidence. I have to believe that I can do what is asked of me, even if I doubt myself. It can be hard to manage sometimes. Still, I know I have to do my best. I am aware that the lines of communication are always open with those I need to share something with. While people have changed over the past few years, they are beginning to work harder at offering support. They let me know it is acceptable to communicate my struggles. It is often best to work through them to be reassured that everything is okay.

Indeed, anxiety brings its struggles in its own way in everyone. Over time, I have improved my ability to cope with the things causing me anxiety. I continue to learn that if something does happen to me, it is not the worst possible thing. This is sometimes the case. I will continue to overcome my struggles over time because I know that I can!