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An Open Letter to Myself On Days When I Feel Like a Bad Person

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at VCU chapter.

Dear Me,

Hey, you. So sorry your anxiety and depression are rearing their ugly heads today. Are you remembering to breathe? Drink water? Get enough sleep? A bit of exercise? It is imperative that when you start to feel less than, you take care of yourself.

Since we are one in the same, I understand that you often have trouble convincing yourself that you are worthy of goodness. Lately, it seems, you even debate whether or not you are truly a good person, as your inner demons often overpower your sense of reason. Don’t beat yourself up over it, though. It happens.

But, at the same time, you can’t let it get to you. Take some time for yourself and try to absorb all the positivity you can. I know how much you love to nap, but, sometimes, being still only heightens the sensation of worthlessness. Instead, exercise. Go on an adventure. Call your family. Clean your apartment. If you just sit and marinate in your self-deprecation, it will, ultimately, be much worse.  

And, if you can, try not to worry too much. I’ve known you since forever, and I mean it wholeheartedly when I say that you are one boss, badass, beautiful person. And you are not, under any circumstances, bad. Quite on the contrary; you are lovely. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

If you are still having trouble, though, please don’t be afraid to seek help. Although you are stronger than you believe, it doesn’t hurt anything to turn to professionals. If you are not interested in medicine, however, simply talking to a physician or psychiatrist can make a world of difference. Especially, since I understand that you often feel alone during your low periods, confiding in someone who truly has your best interest at heart can improve your mood and your outlook on life.

Promise me that you’ll take care of yourself. I always worry when your depression gets worse. Anxiety, although awful, I can handle, but when you say that you believe that you are unworthy of love and happiness, I panic. Please never truly think that way. Please love yourself, even if it’s just a little bit at first. Please be okay.

I know I always remind you of this, but please continue to not only find self-love but to fall in love with the world around you. There are so many beautiful things to even just simply notice. It may not make that much of a difference, but you never know.

Take care of yourself, okay?

Love, Me

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Emily Gerber is a Creative Advertising and English double major at Virginia Commonwealth University. She likes to refer to herself as “Tom Hanks’ adopted daughter,” and is a self-proclaimed succulent mom who takes care of the numerous small cacti living on the windowsill in her apartment. Emily appreciates people who *attempt* to beat her at Disney trivia and wants to dedicate all of her articles to her dog, Daisy.
Keziah is a writer for Her Campus. She is majoring in Fashion Design with a minor in Fashion Merchandising. HCXO!