At 29, I find myself juggling studies and working hard for every single penny. Life hasn’t been easy but it’s these challenges that have shaped who I am today. My childhood wasn’t all that bad but the moment I graduated from school reality hit me hard. Suddenly the safety net I once had was gone and I had to step up and work to survive. No one else in my household was earning so it was up to me.
The transition from being a carefree student to the sole breadwinner wasn’t smooth. Financial struggles became a constant companion, and with them came the weight of responsibility. Balancing work and studies was tough and the stress often felt overwhelming. Sometimes I felt like I had a huge knot in my stomach that wouldn’t go away. That’s what anxiety feels like it’s when you worry so much that your body and mind feel tense all the time.
There were days when I felt really sad and hopeless, like there was a heavy cloud hanging over me. This sadness made it hard to concentrate on my studies or even enjoy the things I used to love. That’s what’s called depression it’s when the sadness sticks around for a long time and makes everything seem harder.
Dealing with these feelings wasn’t easy. But over time I realized that I needed to take care of my mind just as much as I was taking care of my responsibilities. I started seeking out small moments of peace – whether it was a quiet walk a good book or simply breathing deeply when the pressure felt too much.
Support from friends mentors and even those fleeting moments of self-compassion have been my anchors. I learned that it’s okay to struggle and that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a part of being human.
Today, I’m still working hard and studying but I’m also working on myself. I’ve come to understand that my mental health is just as important as my financial well being. It’s a journey and while I’m not where I want to be yet I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Each day is a step forward, and I know that with persistence and self-care I’ll continue to grow stronger.