Because

Mental Illnesses are hard.

Because people look at you and can't see anything "wrong" with you, so they assume you're fine.

Because people think you can "just get over it".

Because people don't understand unless they live it too.

Because it's a constant internal "how-come-i'm-not-normal" fight.

Because "to-take or not-to-take" medication.

Because balancing doses of medication is a bitch.

Because it hurts.


But being on the outside looking in is even harder.


Because you don't know what that person is going through.

Because you don't understand.

Because you WANT to understand.

Because you want to make it go away for them.

Because you love them.

Because you can see the difference when they take meds vs. when they don't: and they can't see it.

Because they think they are fine without meds/therapy/help, but you know they're not.

Because it hurts you to see them hurt.


And when you have to deal with both...sometimes it seems like it's impossible to keep going.

Because you can't help them.

Because you can't help yourself.

Because it's in your HEAD.

Because there is no simple fix.

Because you can't just go to a doctor and say "I broke my head, can I have a cast please?" and expect it to heal in 6-8 weeks.

Because you wrestle with your thoughts all. day. long.


But you have to keep going. You just have to. I know it doesn't seem like it-but it will all be worth it. Practice separating sympathy from empathy. You will slip. It will be hard. Go ahead and cry and then get up and try again. One day at a time. One hour at a time. Just keep going.

Find something that makes you smile and build on that. Try to remember that this life is not forever. Try to remember that you are not alone.

Most people have some kind of mental struggle...we just need to be kind to everyone. Extra kind, because you honestly NEVER KNOW what someone is going through. Even if it's not logical, something you say or do could send someone into a downward spiral. Let's be there for each other. We're all here struggling with SOMETHING--let's make life easier for each other, not more difficult. Stay alive. I love you, even if it seems like no one else does. I love you. Stay Strong. We can do this.