Hello Everyone -Trigger Warning

I think this is my first time joinng a community on this website and I've been using this site since 2014 I believe. I usually don't post things because I know that there's the potential that someone will actually read this, which then just sets off my anxiety and deters my from posting.

Anyway, depression is something I've struggled with since, honestly, elementry school. I never really liked myself and people in school would harass me sometimes, not exactly bullying, but it definitely didn't do much to boost my self-esteem. I never talked to my parents about it because my home life really wasn't that great, divorced parents, oldest sibling (and caretaker of younger siblings), and the constant yelling.

Making friends was difficult for me. I was different, I was weird and very few people accepted that in me. I grew scared to talk to others because I was scared they'd reject me or not want to associate with me later.

In fifth grade, the close friend that I was able to make intoduced my to self-harm, a habit that I took at least six years to kick. I am now four years clean from it, which I thank God for. I would probably not be living if it weren't for my faith.

Long story short, I'm doing so much better than what I used to be, but I still struggle occasionaly with depression and all the time with anxiety. I have a lot to work on, but I'm getting there.

My anxiety was really bad today, which threw me into a low bout of depression and I felt really helpless, but I'm thankfully feeling a lot better now. I just need to keep my eye on the prize so to speak. My post is actually a result of that feeling of helplessness since 7cups has helped me through a good amount dark periods.

Now that I've gone over the negativities of my life, I'd like to end with a positive note!

I just recently graduated from college with my Associate's Degree in Nursing, I took my board exam for nursing this past week and I've passed, so now I am a Registered Nurse! I have an almost boyfriend who cares about me and likes me so much just as I am. I'd honestly like to marry him one day, but baby steps.

Keep on keeping on everyone, thank you so much for taking the time to read my post and have a lovely day! I wish you nothing but the best in this journey we call life.