Finding Strength in the Struggle

Last semester I had three panic attacks and thought I was completely losing it.

My chest would tighten out of nowhere and I could not catch my breath.

A friend taught me the four seven eight breathing. Breathe in for four counts.

Hold for seven, exhale for eight. This simple trick genuinely saved me during finals.

I started blocking out my day in chunks instead of staring at one massive list.

Warning signs were key. For me it was skipping meals and avoiding group

chats. Walking through the counseling center doors was terrifying but it was the

bravest thing. You are not weak for struggling. You are strong for acknowledging it.