Growing up I was often told I was “too dramatic” or “too sensitive”.
In reality, my feelings towards situations were a result of something I don’t always have control over—my anxiety. When I would feel heartbroken over not getting a good grade, or get anxious over simple tasks like walking past a group of people in the hallway, a common reaction would be, “Stop being so dramatic.” Having this said so many times made me start to believe that I was only too dramatic until someone—my counselor—finally said something different. She told me, “You’re not over-dramatic or overly sensitive. You struggle with anxiety and you have nothing to be ashamed of.” To hear someone talk about my struggles in a way that wasn’t negative was an empowering moment. It made me feel understood, like maybe I wasn’t alone in what I struggle with every day.
For girls with similar situations, I have a few things to say in hopes that it might make others feel the empowerment that I did.
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Your worries and fears are heard.
With anxiety, it can often feel like your concerns aren’t heard. When you’re immediately shut down and told you’re too dramatic or sensitive for having heightened emotions, it seems as if no one truly hears what you are trying to tell them. What you have to say and what you feel is valid. You don’t have to feel discouraged. Others hear want to hear you and will genuinely listen.
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Your worries and fears are understood.
Even if you are able to put into words the complex thoughts going through your head, it can still seem as if people don’t understand what it is you are going through. The truth is that people might not always be able to relate to your worries and fears, but they can be sensitive to what you struggle with and provide compassion.
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You’re not too sensitive or too dramatic.
No matter what people have said to you or will say to you, you are not over-dramatic or too sensitive. You may feel your anxiety and have reactions that are different from others, but that doesn’t mean you should be put down for it.
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You will overcome this.
Even in the moments where it seems like you’re drowning in your thoughts, you will overcome this. You are strong. There are so many outlets and resources to help you through the times that seem the darkest. Most college campuses have counseling services with trained counselors for you to go to.