A story about loneliness, anxiety, and learning how to come back to the world after pulling away.

Pen Name or Anonymous: Anonymous
Age: 26

Moving to a foreign country was a completely new environment for me. I was excited about the new place and making new friends, but I didn't expect it to be so painful. I already had some health issues, but the loneliness was different; I felt like no one cared.

I fell into depression because I felt like I had no one to talk to. I even started criticizing myself, thinking it was all my fault. However, I eventually noticed that there were indeed people who enjoyed talking to me.

I made up my mind then: do not expect anything from anyone. This shift in mindset is what truly brought me happiness.

I also struggled with anxiety attacks and suffered for almost a year. When the anxiety became severe, it was difficult to talk to anyone, and I started ignoring people. It disturbed my studies and every other part of my life.

When I realized how much precious time I was losing, I knew I had to start going out and interacting with others again. I told myself that the brain is very powerful, and sometimes you just have to "trick" it.

Stress is a part of life, but we shouldn't let it become so overwhelming that it controls us. Now, I am finally coming out of it. While I took medication during that period, yoga and meditation played the most important roles in helping me recover.

What would you say to someone who is going through a similar situation?:

I know right now everything feels heavy, and the loneliness in a new place can feel like it's swallowing you whole. It's okay to feel that way; moving your entire life is a massive transition.

But remember, your brain is currently looking at the world through a 'filter' of anxiety. It's telling you that no one cares or that it's your fault, but that is the anxiety talking—it isn't the truth. Just as I've realized, there are people who want to talk to you, even if it doesn't feel like that.

Don't be too hard on yourself for 'wasted time.' Healing isn't a waste of time; it's the most important work you can do. Start small. You don't have to change everything today. Just like I found peace in yoga or a simple walk, take it one breath at a time. You are much stronger than your overthinking. You have the power to 'trick' your mind back into happiness. Don't wait for the world to come to you—take one small step toward the world, and you'll see that you still have your voice.