J.K Rowling once commented that "no story lives unless someone wants to listen." On a day like Bell Let’s Talk Day, those of us who navigate mental illness have the chance to share parts of our stories, and why talking about our mental health like we would any other aspect of our health is so important. As I sat down to write this post, I thought: What would I have wanted someone to tell me when I was an undergraduate student 20 years ago, when many of my challenges navigating anxiety and depression began?

First, and perhaps most importantly, your mental health challenges do not define who you are. They are only a part of your story, but so too are your strengths, the things that make you unique and the things that you have and will contribute to the world.

Second, don’t stuff things down or avoid trying to deal with your mental health. I recognize this is much easier said than done. I managed to do so for over a decade but in the process created years’ worth of negative cognitive patterns I had to learn how to undo.

Third, remember that you are not alone. When you’re ready to talk about your mental health, there will be people in your life there to support you. Always.

Lastly, mental illness is different for each of us – in what we experience, whether it manifests mentally or physically and in the diagnosis itself. There are many ways to work through these challenges, and it’s important to remember that finding the right formula to do so – cognitive techniques, seeing a Counselor, antidepressants, your pets, music, writing and so on – take time. Be kind to yourself while you’re figuring out what works best for you.