Hey Everyone! I'm new to reddit - this is my first post! Mental Health is a topic that is constantly on my mind. Firstly, because I am someone who consistently faces anxiety. I am an extroverted person, and I enjoy discussion with people, on any topic, especially mental health. I realize that this is a touchy topic, and not everyone feels comfortable talking about their mental state, as it is very personal and also quite abstract. Consequently, it is hard sometimes for someone to even describe how they feel, let alone be confident that someone will understand them. So, here it is, a forum where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself, no matter how small you think your "issue" is, or how big and abstract! Let it all out.

Now for a little background on my self. I am a twenty-something year old male student at the University of Ottawa in my last semester (it feels so good!). I have suffered from anxiety for a number of years, but I have to say that it increased around my second year of university. My studies have been a source of anxiety, as I am in the political science program and it has been really been a hit-or-miss for me. In effect, this has caused me to worry about how to approach the future, which is definitely a source of anxiety for many people, young or old! I also deal with anxiety because of how I perceive my physical self and I believe this offshoots into worries about my diet and exercise. Overall I am a very sensitive person who, when feeling anxious, is often very judgemental and silent. I know that I am at my best when I can carry a conversation with anyone, and this is how I like to describe myself to others, even though it is not always my reality.

So, this is just a little introduction about myself - I have only scratched the surface. Even writing that small introduction of myself felt difficult, because there are some things that are too complex to write down all at once, but, we have to start somewhere!Let's engage in conversation and find the courage to open up!