Dear Jessica, I went to the doctor this morning for some oesophagus issue. Yes, it's uncommon. I had to google "body anatomy" to figure out what was the name of this part of my body that was aching. Anyway, the doctor said it was due to anxiety. My physio also told me that my neck and back issues are linked to my anxiety. So not only is it messing up with my brain, but also with my body. And it's exhausting. I had my first anxiety attack when I was 12. My parents have never been too supportive. I think my father is scared for me, and doesn't know how to help. So he just ignores it. I saw a bunch of different psychologist from 12 to 28. Until I got really depressed. My panick attacks had gotten so bad that leaving my house was hard. So I turned to a nurse, who, I think, finally diagnosed what was "wrong" with me. She recommended a psychologist, who, within 50 minutes, read me and told me I was going to be ok. She is the first doctor I met, who never under-estimated my mental health issues and who had a plan to help me fix them. That was a liberating moment in my life. I still struggle everyday. But at least, there is a name on my issues, and people can help me. It is still hard for me to discuss my mental health with my friends and family. Especially when I don't feel fine. I don't want to be a burden to people. I don't want to be the one always complaining. It tends to be a lonely disease, because invisible. This summer, I took a trip to London. I can finally leave my house, travel, do all the things I love and missed for the last years. I posted something on social media about my fight and how happy I was to be traveling again. The feedbacks were awesome. Lots of hearts filled my DM. I realized people are sensitive to mental health issues, and more people than we think are facing them as well. I don't really have an ending to this email. Except that I hope the stigmas around mental health issues will disappear. I am hoping for less loneliness, more open talks and open hearts. Thank you for creating this project! Best, Audrey