But having anxiety or depression is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. It takes a great deal of courage to confront the inner demons that come with these conditions, to face the feat of uncertainty they bring. It’s the courage to keep going and to keep fighting, even when everything seems impossible.
The idea that experiencing anxiety or depression could be a sign of strength may at first appear paradoxical. After all, these ailments are frequently linked to sensations of powerlessness, vulnerability, and weakness. Closer examination reveals that the contrary is actually true: persons who battle anxiety or depression are frequently among the most resilient, robust individuals you will ever encounter.
Think about it: it takes a tremendous amount of fortitude and strength to live with anxiety or despair. When you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, it takes courage to get out of bed each day. To face your anxieties and endure the panic attacks that come with worry requires strength. Even when every cell in your body is urging you to give up, it takes courage to press on.
In addition, people who experience anxiety or depression frequently possess unmatched sensitivity and emotional intelligence. They have experienced difficulty, loneliness, and being overtaken by their own thoughts and feelings. As a result, they frequently exhibit extreme kindness, compassion, and understanding and are able to establish meaningful connections with people.
But, the fact that you have to face your own inner demons when you experience anxiety or depression may be the most significant aspect in which it is a sign of strength. You cannot ignore or pretend that mental health problems don’t exist when you are dealing with them. Even if it’s the last thing you want to do, you have to confront them head-on. Such fearlessness and self-awareness are admirable qualities, not ones to be ashamed of.
In conclusion, it’s time to reframe the way we think about anxiety and depression. Instead of seeing them as signs of weakness, we should see them as signs of strength. Those who struggle with these conditions are some of the strongest, most resilient, and most empathetic people you will ever meet. So if you are one of those people, be proud of yourself. You are a warrior, and the world is a better place for having you in it.
Alisha Mahajan is a mental health advocate from Puerto Rico. She speaks Mandarin and Vietnamese.