9 THINGS.

I'm 18, and 19 in 28 days...

I can honestly say I've been through my fair share of ups and downs, and can proudly say I've over come most things and also learned a lot through the stages of my difficult times.

In the 18 years I've existed, I've moved to the other side of the world, handled and recovered from anorexia, depression and anxiety, and I've also fallen pregnant. The one thing I'm most proud of though... is learning to live with the tortured mind I am going to have for the rest of my life.
It's not been easy, hell, saying it has been hard would be an understatement but I've learned so much... and why would I keep it to myself when I know there's people out there struggling too?

So here's what I've learned in 18 years...

1. You're Not Stuck.
   There is always a way out, sometimes it's not the path you would choose to take, but if it gets you somewhere take it. Do not obsess yourself with the idea that 'stuck' is the new you.
   
2. Always Ask For Help, Even When You're Not Sure Why You Need It.
   When I started to become sick, I didn't ask for help and thought I was fine. It wasn't until I experienced self-harm for the first time, that I realized I couldn't do 'it' on my own, even though I didn't know what 'it' was.
   
3. Talk. 
   It's not easy, and you don't have to say much, but it helps.
   
4. Do Not Say Sorry For Something You Have No Control Over. 
   Do NOT say sorry for having a mental illness, do NOT say sorry when you are hurting, do NOT say sorry for being sick and please, do NOT say sorry for asking for help.
   
5. You're Your Own Worst Enemy, But Also Your Greatest Weapon.
   This is something I tell my self continuously. I have control over my thoughts, and how I feel but sometimes you don't realize how much your mind is standing in your own way. Your brain can play nasty tricks on you, and I'm speaking from experience, but your mind is also your greatest weapon. Fight it.
   
6. You Deserve To Be Happy. 
   This doesn't need an explanation.
   
7. Don't Cry Over Spilled Milk.
   You'll soon realize that whatever is stressing you out or making you upset now, will not matter in 1 month.
   
8. You Are Not Your Mental Illness.You have a mental illness, but you are not living through your mental illness. Your illness does not define you as a person and please, do not live your life like it does.
   
9. For Fuck Sake, Love Yourself. 
   Please.