This train still runs

Over the course of this year, I’ve learned a lot about perseverance. At first, I doubted whether I had the courage and strength to let people see my vulnerabilities. However, I was frustrated and disappointed that I felt so alone.

Although I knew that, potentially, I was opening myself up to scrutiny, judgment, and pity, I also found acceptance, love, and support. For that, I am grateful. One of the great ironies of depression is the way that it can leave you feeling completely alone even when you are surrounded by other people.

I don’t regret my decision to be transparent about my process. If seeing me work through depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD and come out well on the other side gives one other person hope in their own struggle, then I will have achieved my goal.

Despite difficult days, I have made tremendous progress toward building my resilience. I no longer doubt whether I will come out stronger and healthier on the other side. This train still runs.