She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Anxiety: A Journey of Self-Discovery

From Excuses to Action

I used to believe that seeking help for my anxiety was a luxury I couldn’t afford. With a tight budget and a freelance writing career, I thought I couldn’t spare the time or money to prioritize my mental health. But when my anxiety reached an all-time high, I knew I had to take action.

The Perfect Storm

After moving back to Los Angeles from San Francisco, I found myself juggling multiple responsibilities. I had to set up a new apartment, navigate a new city, and adjust to a freelance writing career with unpredictable pay dates. On top of that, I was struggling to rekindle old friendships and make new ones. It was the perfect storm for anxiety to take over.

Facing Fears and Finding Help

When I finally broke down under the pressure, I knew I needed help. Luckily, I’m still covered under my mom’s insurance, which meant I only had to pay $25 per doctor’s visit. I started by seeing an intake specialist, who referred me to a psychiatrist. With medication and group therapy sessions, I began to feel like myself again. The costs were manageable – $10 a month for medication and $12 per group session – but what mattered most was taking that first step.

Beyond the Bottom Line

At first, I was scared about the costs, but I realized that my mental health was worth more than any paycheck. I had to let go of my fear of “wasting” time and money on self-care. By prioritizing my well-being, I discovered that the most important things in dealing with anxiety and depression are priceless. Simple exercises from my group classes, talking to loved ones, and reading personal essays online didn’t break the bank. In fact, they helped me improve significantly.

A Newfound Sense of Self

I learned to be kinder to myself, allowing myself to take breaks and indulge in small pleasures like chocolate or frozen yogurt. I gave myself permission to prioritize my health over my work. It wasn’t easy, but I realized that my own well-being is worth more than any job or paycheck. Leaving my full-time job may have been inconvenient, but it forced me to confront my mental health and take control of my life.

The Takeaway

My journey with anxiety has taught me that seeking help is not a luxury, but a necessity. It’s okay to take a step back, prioritize your health, and invest in yourself. You don’t have to break the bank to take care of your mental health. Sometimes, all it takes is a willingness to take that first step and be kind to yourself along the way.