Recently I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression; something that was always such a taboo topic in our household. Not only has it been hard for me to accept my diagnoses, it has been hard for my family to as well. After seeing my family’s reaction of disappointment, and having them tell me, ‘You’re fine, you just need to get out more’, I felt a spark of passion ignite. The shame from my own family for attempting to better myself, caused an almost unbearable pain. I decided that no one should have to feel that way. I’m working on educating myself more on mental health and mental illness, so that I can start to spread awareness in my community. I am doing this through social media, and I am starting to look for volunteer opportunities! Your diagnosis is not who you are, it does not define you. You are still worthy of love, respect, and kindness.