Title of Work
Description of Work
I have struggled with anxiety and depression for most of my life. At first, I didn't understand it. Then, I was embarrassed by it. I chose to hide my struggle. It became my own silent battle. A battle I was slowly losing. In March of 2020, the world shut down. A dark, suffocating cloud began to settle over all of us. Life as we knew it, completely changed. At first, I thought I was handling the drastic life changes. I thought I was simply adapting. Then it happened, I lost control. My body physically prevented me from sleeping. It was like I was at war with myself. Every attempt at sleep ended with a jolt of adrenaline and my heart racing. I felt completely helpless. I was stuck in fight or flight with no end in sight.
I am beyond thankful for my friends and family. I have an incredible support system, but I realized I needed more. I returned to therapy and I found a great doctor who helped guide me through other options to assist me with my anxiety. I took a deep dive into understanding the root of my anxiety, my triggers, and creating tools for managing it. This poem is about my experience with anxiety. It's about the internal battle and the struggle to ask for help. The aftermath of my experience ended up being transformational. I now put my mental health first. This allows me to have the capacity to care for others without getting burnt out. It's not easy and I work on it daily, but it is a commitment I made to myself. Remember, we are all dealing with our own internal battles. Be kind, be respectful and be empathetic.
Recommended Citation
Mulvihill, Kaline E.
(2021)
"Resignation,"
Akesis: Vol. 6:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
Available at:
https://dune.une.edu/akesis/vol6/iss1/5