To be honest, I'd never really thought about mental health for much of my life. It was never really a part of it. Nobody in my family suffered from any mental health issues, to my knowledge.

But I was always an anxious youngster, always wanting to fit in when I felt like all my friends secretly hated me. I’m a very sensitive person, and this isn’t something I’m ashamed of, but to some people this is very strange.

While studying drama at school, someone began to touch me without my consent. I remember feeling violated and dirty, and constantly washed my hands to try and make myself feel clean again. I went over and over the events in my mind, and asked myself, “Why didn’t I scream? Why didn’t I push away?”

I was scared. Simple as that. He claimed his innocence of course, and everyone believed him because of his academic ability. He continued to taunt me several times after this.

I've been through counseling and have been diagnosed with OCD. It's a bloody hard battle but I try my best to get through each day. Mental illness isn't a joke. I hope that no one else has to feel as alone as I did and still do at times. The stigma has to end.