A Teen Girl's Mental Health
Coping with Mental Illness
By Nikki, age 18, Pennsylvania
When you think of the term mental illness, you assume someone with a physical disability that talks differently or walks differently. Today that perception has somewhat changed. Many people are mentally ill and barely show any signs of anything abnormal at all. I myself have bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, panic disorder, and ADHD, so when it comes to mental issues, I am very well aware.
The issue in the world today is that many people have disorders and don't even realize it! Many people go through depression and other problems that they think can't be treated, and they feel abnormal and weak compared to everyone else. The main point is that there is hope for teens going through hard times and dealing with emotions and thoughts they do not comprehend. Many teens commit suicide because they didn't know they had a problem, so they didn't reach out for help.
What I'm here to tell you is that there is help, and you don't need to suffer anymore. You don't need to deal with this on your own anymore. I wake up every day confused and anxious, feeling as though my life could easily just crumble and cause me to want to hurt myself. I have irrational fears and troublesome thoughts that I have trouble coping with. Some days I feel like I'm going crazy and I worry that someone could hurt me. It's a hard shoe to fill.
If you're dealing with a mental disorder you know where I'm coming from. The assistance I have to offer you is that when you feel down and out about yourself don't hurt yourself - reach out!
I have learned in life that being blunt is the best way to cope with disorders and to feel better about yourself. If you tell people exactly how you feel they will listen. They might think you're a nut, but trust me, getting those feelings and emotions out really takes a load off. You don't have to live your life wondering if you are okay because no matter how horrible you feel there is always a reason to go on. If you are having trouble finding positive things in your life, and you feel like you can't go on, don't let yourself fall into that lie. You are okay. You will make it through life no matter how much you feel like you won't.
I hope that my personal experience and advice will help you to try to get help. I also hope that it will help you to see yourself in a positive way. Always remember ... No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.
Thank you, Nikki. As Nikki said, if you feel you are struggling with these kinds of issues, don't hestitate. Contact your doctor, school counselor, religious leader, or a mental health care professional. There is help for you and it will make a difference!
Take care,
Stephanie Lynn
