Hey, You're Still You (Even When Your Brain's Being Extra)
Ever feel like you were created for something more, but your anxiety is like an overexcited party planner who keeps screaming "BUT WHAT IF?" about literally everything? Or when depression acts like a heavy curtain, blocking out the light that you know is still shining somewhere behind it?
Yeah, me too. Let's talk about it. 🫂
Identity Crisis: The Deeper Story
You know that feeling when you look in the mirror and barely recognize yourself? Like there's this greater purpose written into your very being, but anxiety and depression are trying to rewrite the script? It's like having a masterpiece covered in dust – the beauty isn't gone, it's just temporarily hidden.
The Truth About Who You Are
Here's something profound – and I'm going to get a bit real here – you were fearfully and wonderfully made. Even when your mind feels like a fun house mirror distorting everything, there's an unchangeable truth about your worth that no amount of anxiety or depression can erase. You're not just existing; you're part of a bigger story.
Finding Your Way Back (It's Already Written)
Want to reconnect with your true self? Here are some gentle ways to remember who you were meant to be:
The Sacred Secret
Here's something beautiful they don't often talk about: your struggles aren't meaningless. Every battle, every tear, every moment of doubt – they're all part of a journey that's shaping you into something remarkable. Like a diamond being formed under pressure, or a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, transformation often comes through challenges.
Think of anxiety and depression like temporary clouds passing over your spirit – they might block the light for a while, but they can't diminish your inherent value or change your true identity. There's something eternal and unchangeable about who you are, something that exists beyond your current struggles.
Remember: seeking help isn't a sign of weakness; it's an act of profound wisdom. Whether through counseling, support groups, or connecting with understanding friends – you're not meant to walk this path alone. There are people placed in your life to help guide you back to wholeness.
PS: You are loved beyond measure, valued beyond price, and purposed beyond your current perspective. That's not just a nice saying – it's a deep truth written into the fabric of your being. Keep holding on; dawn always follows the darkest night. ✨
A Light in the Dark
When everything feels overwhelming, remember that you're not just fighting against something – you're fighting for something. For the person you were created to be. For the light that's within you. For the hope that tomorrow holds.
And that light inside you? It's still there, friend. No darkness can extinguish it completely. Sometimes the brightest stars can only be seen when the night is darkest.
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Lyle Labardee, MS, LPC is a licensed behavioral health therapist and former first responder who specializes in first responder wellness. He also serves as CEO of Amplified Life, a leading provider of counseling, coaching, consulting and critical incident response services. Amplified Life stands ready to support you in the very important work you do. Please feel free to contact us at any time as needed by calling or emailing our Care Team at 616-499-4711 | care@amplife.us.
Historic Counseling Center
7791 Byron Center Ave SW
Byron Center, MI 49315
616-499-4711
South Counseling Center
2465 Byron Station Dr SW
Byron Center, MI 49315
616-499-4711
Christopher Van Stee
Author