Trigger warning: this piece discusses themes of anxiety.
Most days, I would look at myself and think these things are just taking over. That everyone I meet is going to see me as the girl with ADHD, anxiety, and auditory processing disorder (APD) with hearing aids/microphone.
Every day, I would go to school with my hearing aids in and my microphone in its case and I wouldn’t give it to my teachers. I would hear whispers and small talk in class about it and I was ashamed of myself and I beat myself up every day for it. Over time I realised it was okay and I didn’t end up needing them when I was told I had ADHD and needed some medication to help me go back to school and learn better. In my eyes, I think that’s the day that turned me around.
I realised I could be better and go to school again since I am the girl who has always loved school. I ended up going to school, doing normal things, and engaging with family and friends. It was people, self-confidence, and many other little steps to get me here now. I still have my ups and downs but I embrace them. My piece of advice is one step and you're flying away!
-Alex Wal
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