I (24 F) just wanted to share my story in hopes it could help someone else. I’ve had anxiety and depression since probably 7-8 years old. Some of my earliest memories are of having anxiety attacks. There were periods in my life (13-14 &amp; 19-21) where I have been suicidal, I never thought I could get through it. I’ve self harmed, I’ve had episodes of disassociation so bad I didn’t know where I was, and I had a year where I had an anxiety attack every night and would lay awake shaking for a couple hours. 

I just assumed I’d have to deal with that for the rest of my life. I started medication around 18 when I went to college and it helped some, but not a lot. I tried a therapist, that helped some, but not a lot either. I did alright for a few years but I had such horrible anxiety at the end of 2019 I couldn’t take it. During an anxiety attack I actually applied to see a couple therapists, only one of which ended up having space, and could only get me in a couple months later. I was in therapy for over a year and a half and it’s been transformative. I’m able to control my anxiety better than I’ve ever been able to. Symptoms I’ve had my entire life I’m able to manage now. It gave me a whole new outlook on life. Don’t get me wrong, there are still bad days and I still get anxious, but it’s about real things, not the imaginary problems. 

I guess what I want to say is, it’s possible for you too. If you aren’t ready for therapy yet, that’s okay. Do what is best for you. But don’t give up hope.