Overcoming

The biggest and most difficult thing I had to overcome this past year was leaving a codependent relationship. These are the kinds of relationships people do not really teach you about until you realize you are already in one. Many people expect relationships to be like the romantic movies they grew up watching, and I know I did. However, sometimes people become attached to someone who is not emotionally healthy. This does not mean they are physically sick, but they may struggle with deeper emotional or personal issues. Even though it was difficult, I eventually recognized the situation for what it was and chose to walk away.

At one point, I realized I was beginning to lose myself. I knew I had to start putting myself first because my mental health was more important than trying to fix someone who either could not or would not admit they needed help. Since then, I have been learning more about who I am while also unlearning unhealthy patterns and behaviors. Healing is not something people always see. It is raw, uncomfortable, emotional, and takes time. It means facing your feelings honestly, understanding yourself better, and slowly learning how to love yourself again.

Overcoming something I was never taught was unhealthy has been the greatest challenge I faced this past year. At the same time, it has made me stronger, more self-aware, and more understanding of others. Because of this experience, I want to help people who are struggling in their own difficult situations one day. No one should ever feel alone in what they are going through, and I want to use what I have learned to help others find their own strength and healing.