Only those living with anxiety or depression can truly understand the crippling effects of the symptoms that come along with them. From feeling empty to hopeless to totally out of control, people with these illnesses often struggle to believe that there is, in fact, a light at the end of the tunnel.
But Ariane Sherine, a writer for The Guardian with depression and anxiety, encourages everyone to keep pushing toward that day when they will feel better. She joined HuffPost Live host Caroline Modarressy-Tehrani today to discuss who helped her cope with her illness and offer advice for others out there looking for similar relief.
“When I was suicidal and having suicidal ideations daily, hourly, I never imagined that I would be this happy and this stable again," said Sherine. "But I've got a wonderful, beautiful daughter, and she makes life worth living."
Sherine's advice for others coping with traumatic experiences is simple: "Please don't give up," she said. "Life can get better ... It might involve a lot of trial and error, but it's possible to feel normal again or almost normal again."
To hear more about how loved ones can help you cope with the darkest of times, watch the full HuffPost Live clip above.
Have a story about depression that you'd like to share? Email strongertogether@huffingtonpost.com, or give us a call at (860) 348-3376, and you can record your story in your own words. Please be sure to include your name and phone number.
Need help? In the U.S., call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.