Did you know that anxiety affects over 40 million people in the US alone?
If I told you that I too have anxiety, would you believe me?
I struggled pretty badly growing up. Unfortunately, during my childhood, the words anxiety, ADHD, and autism weren't the familiar words that they are now. (And all 3 exist in our home+PKD )
I was fortunate enough to recognize at a young age that I struggled in social settings.
I wouldn't even go to sixth grade camp because I overthought all of the things that could happen... I'm sure some of the people I dealt with at that age weren't helpful either as kids can be quite mean.
When I started realizing that I was missing out on things, I started pushing myself out of my element as much as I could!
I still struggle to this day and I actually even take anxiety meds.
It breaks my heart to now watch my daughter go through the same things I did. Sadly, her anxiety is even worse. To the point that we have put her on a 504 plan at school. Luckily we are in an amazing school district that truly helps us!
This first picture is a picture of me in third grade. If you would have shown me the second picture when I was 9 years old, and told me that this would one day be me, I wouldn't have believed you.
Being a part of USOA has helped me show my kids that you can do anything you put your heart to!
When I read to those classrooms, the comments that I get from the kids just melt my heart!
At such a young age, they already think they aren't worthy of being a queen... I think I will have to start carrying around this picture with me to show them otherwise!
Another one of my favorite parts about USOA is that I get to connect with all of my amazing sister Queens!
One of them being an amazing woman named Johanna Kasperski! Not only is Johanna a therapist herself, but she recently created this book to help kids who struggle with anxiety!
I'm so thankful for the help that is out there! So many people don't understand how it feels to have something bothering you... Especially when sometimes you can't even pinpoint what it is.
All you can do is learn how to cope. Everyone is different  We're still working on learning Reese's triggers! I wouldn't wish it in anyone!
#EmpowerInspireUplift lift
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