That it isn't a choice. No matter how many times you tell me to calm down when I'm having an anxiety attack, or to cheer up when I am struggling with my depression, I will not be able to. And your saying those things will actually just make me feel guilty for my own mental illness. I wish people understood that the best I can do is continue to take my medications, see my counselor, and try to develop some coping skills, but there will be days where I am just unable to control how bad it gets. Maybe it will be like this forever. Maybe it will change tomorrow. All I know is I didn't choose this, so I can't unchoose it, so to speak.

I also wish that people understood being mentally ill isn't my only identity. I am obviously ill, and it is a huge part of my life, but it isn't the only one. I love to play video games. I like to take my dog out for a walk when I get home from work or school. I love to skateboard. I'm graduating college in two weeks. My mom is my best friend. I've fallen in and out of love; multiple times, on multiple occasions, with multiple people. These are all parts of me; being sick doesn't take them away, nor does it make them less importance. I just wish people could see me as a person rather than a headcase. It is a large part as to why I do not tell people I struggle with anxiety and depression if I can help it.