In this episode, we continue our new series on the podcast that focuses on the power of storytelling with the help of authors who originally had their stories published on the TWLOHA blog. Today, we’re hearing from and talking to Alicia Gillman about her experience living with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and the ways in which they’ve impacted her life on a day-to-day basis. Alicia shares a story so many of us can relate to when it comes to intrusive thoughts, and reminds us to never let our mental health struggles define who we are.
“You’re the reason I have to remind myself to breathe, the reason why tiny tasks can send me into a non-stop frenzy until they are completed. You’re the reason I have to take pills every day, and why I can’t handle the days when I don’t. You’re the reason I have emergency Xanax when the normal dose doesn’t work. For all these things, I used to blame myself instead of you. Doing so only encouraged you—it only made you stronger. But now I can claim the title of the stronger one. Despite the pain you’ve caused, I have accepted you as a part of me, just not all of me. You are not me.”
This episode of the TWLOHA podcast was hosted by Chad Moses and produced by Lindsay Kolsch, with editorial support by Rebecca Ebert. Music assistance was provided by James Likeness and Ben Tichenor.
Sign up for our newsletter to hear updates from our team and how you can help share the message of hope and help.
Join our list
