The story on this page was written by a Cam’s Kids Ambassador. You can learn more about Cam’s Kids here. For anyone struggling with their mental health, you can text the word CAM to 686868 for free, 24-7 confidential mental health support.
My experience with anxiety has been like a roller coaster, you never know what turns it might take. I have been suffering from anxiety since I was 8 years old but was diagnosed later on. I remember seeking or rather craving help when I was younger but received none. I then sort to help myself given that I had access to resources that I never did earlier in life. I have had various symptoms of anxiety-like chest pains, insomnia, shivering, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, disassociation, body pain and stiffness and remuneration of the past.
I realized something was different since I was a teenager and tried understanding myself and looking for answers. What made me realize this was a conversation with a couple of high school friends and how they did not seem to understand what this was and what kind of emotions or worry I was going through.
Due to a lack of resources, there wasn’t much that I could do or change. The only thing I did as a child and a teenager was share with my parents and look for answers from them but got shut down instead. It was only when I came to Canada for my undergrad, I was able to take counselling services and focus on myself.
Some ways that I take care of my mental health / anxiety are, performing self-care that could be as simple as skin care, manicure and pedicure, working out and eating healthy. I also maintain a gratitude journal alongside a daily journal to pen down my thoughts. Sometimes indulging in meditation to calm myself.
Some people in my life that support me include my mom, kindergarten and high school friends and my university friends. They help me ground in the times of an anxiety/panic attack and support me in my journey as well as try to understand where I am coming from and learn more about my disorder to help me better.
When it comes to supporting people in my life who struggle with anxiety, I have learned from my own experiences, and that of others when I listen to them, is that everyone’s experiences are different and so maybe the approaches. The key is to listen, acknowledge, validate and understand and last but not least try to help as much as you can with the best of your abilities.
The personal stories and advice shared on this page are not meant to be used as medical advice. If you’re feeling worried or unsure about your mental health, it’s important to talk to a trusted adult or a healthcare professional. For free, 24/7, confidential and multilingual e-mental health support services you can contact Kids Help Phone.
