My Experience with Anxiety

I have lived with anxiety for many years now. To be honest, it’s hard to remember a time that it wasn't a part of my life. The relentless noise in my head, the never-ending stream of thoughts. Only small pockets, or rather moments, of peace and quiet before the spiral starts again.

Over the years, my anxiety has taken many forms. Some forms have come and gone, while others remain, likely with me for the foreseeable future. I've struggled with anxiety about being the center of attention, public speaking, trying new things, social situations, fear for my loved ones, existential anxiety, and just generally overthinking...everything. Every thought, feeling, action, mood, situation—nothing escapes it.

You might be thinking, "Isn’t part of being an author having to put yourself out there, to speak in public, to be seen, to be heard?" The answer, of course, is yes. Which is why, much like Gabriella, the main character of my book, I’ve had to learn to push past the fear, doubt, and anxiety. I must have faith and courage, and reach other side of fear where all my hopes and dreams live. In doing so, I'm able to share this story and message with kids who might be going through what I did, as well as continue to work through my anxiety and grow through the process myself.

I am forever grateful to my dad for sharing those wise words with me as many times as I've needed to hear them. Words that have brought so much comfort, and have fostered courage, inspiration, and motivation. Words that have carried me through some very tough and anxious times. Words without which this book, and the story it holds, would not exist:

"All your hopes and dreams are on the other side of fear"

Let it be known that I am by no means an expert on anxiety, nor do I claim to have all the answers. I am simply someone who's lived with it, like so many others, for all my life. I hope this story, and perhaps my journey too, might inspire others to chase their dreams and work through their anxieties as well. I'd be honored for my book to play even a small part in that process.

I would love to share a dedicated blog post about some strategies and tips and tricks that have helped me manage my anxiety over the years, but for now I will share the most significant by far: faith. 

There is no greater comfort than the love and strength I've found in God. Praying, going to church, studying the bible, and learning to surrender all my anxieties and fears to Jesus is an ongoing journey, but one that has brought peace, relief, courage and strength. I wouldn't be where I am today, the person I am today, and I certainly wouldn’t have published this book, were it not for my faith in Him.

Thank you, Jesus—my stronghold, my provider, and my peace. 

I am nearly 22 and I still deal with anxiety on a daily basis. However, every day I choose to push through. Every day thoughts and worries flood my mind. But over time, I've learned to not let them drown me, how to move them to the back of the mind where they no longer have control. The other side of fear is very real. It's the light at the end of the tunnel. There is always hope, always joy to be found, always dreams to chase.

Don't. Give. Up.

That's all I have to say for now!

I'll meet you on the other side of fear,

Liv :)