Revealing silences

Bonus - Liam

Dear Readers,

Today, I want to share with you a part of myself that has profoundly influenced my life: my struggle with anxiety. It is an ongoing battle, a complex dance with my emotions and thoughts, but it is also a journey that has taught me a great deal about resilience and self-discovery. Anxiety is not something that can be cured overnight. It is not a condition with a simple solution or a magic pill that makes it disappear. For me, it has become a daily reality, a part of myself that I have learned to accept and manage over time.

There have been times when anxiety seemed to take complete control of my life. Days when every decision, every social interaction, every minor challenge was accompanied by a surge of fear and apprehension. It was as if my mind was constantly in a storm, unable to find the inner calm necessary to simply breathe.

I sought help. I consulted mental health professionals, explored various stress management techniques, and practiced meditation and yoga to find balance. Gradually, I began to understand the triggers of my anxiety, the thought patterns that exacerbate my fears, and the coping mechanisms that help me navigate through difficult times. Yet, despite all these strategies, anxiety remains a constant companion. It does not magically disappear. But I have learned to recognize it, to manage it, and not to let it dictate every aspect of my life. It is a continuous process of learning, acceptance, and adaptation that evolves day by day.

One of the most significant discoveries in my life has been basketball. Initially, I played seriously for the competition. It was a way to channel my energy and frustration and to prove to myself that I could succeed despite my inner fears. But over time, basketball has become much more than that for me.

I realized that it wasn't so much the desire to win that motivated me, but rather the pure love of the game. Every time I step onto the court, it's as if I'm leaving the weight of anxiety behind. During those moments, I am free. Free to focus on the movement of the ball, the harmony of the team, and the simple pleasure of playing.

Today, I no longer play basketball to compete or to prove anything to anyone, including myself. I play for the joy of the game, the connection with my teammates, and the adrenaline of every dribble and shot. It has become a genuine outlet, a bubble of freedom in which I can temporarily escape the pressures and expectations of everyday life. My journey with anxiety has also taught me a lot about myself and what truly matters in life. I have learned to recognize my limits and respect my emotional needs. I have discovered the importance of self-compassion and patience when things get tough. Every day is a new challenge, but also a new opportunity for personal growth.

For those of you living with anxiety, I want to tell you that you are not alone. There are millions of people around the world who share your struggle, who understand your fears, and who are ready to support you. Seek help if you need it, talk openly about your emotions with friends or professionals, and find activities that bring you comfort and joy.

I am grateful for every day I can play basketball, for every smile shared with my teammates, and for every moment of peace found in the game. Anxiety may never completely disappear from my life, but I now know that I can live a full and rewarding life despite its challenges.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and build a community where understanding and mutual support are at the heart of our interactions.

With gratitude and hope,
Liam