Meet Briana

Raise your hand if you’re super awkward when it comes to talking about yourself. Don’t worry, me too! But I’ll start. My name is Briana but since we’re friends now you can call me Bri. I am a 26 year old just trying to make it in this crazy world. For as long as I can remember I’ve struggled with mental health issues like depression and anxiety but it wasn’t until recently I’ve actually started to deal with these conditions. For far too long I struggled in silence because I was embarrassed of who I was. I didn’t want to be viewed as weak or a burden to anyone around me. For most of my teen years and early twenties I was just going through the motions of life, not fully living in hopes that I didn’t draw too much attention to my flaws and insecurities.

In December of 2018 I was diagnosed with Lupus. As confused as I was by the diagnosis I have to admit I was a bit relieved. Now I know that statement might not make the most sense but it’s important to note that for about 7-8 years leading up to this diagnosis, I had no clue what was wrong with me. I would go through periods of time where I would feel so exhausted no matter how much rest I got and I had been in and out of urgent care centers for issues related to severe chest, stomach and joint pain. Each visit paid to a doctor bore a new diagnosis and pushed me deeper and deeper into my depression. I began to fear going to the doctor because I didn’t want to hear more bad news. Being able to finally put a name to some of my issues gave me hope.

In March of 2019 I had my first severe Lupus flare up. I was out of commission for over a week and if I’m being honest I have to say I am still struggling to bounce back some 9 months later. I was so depressed during that time because I couldn’t do anything for myself and I felt like a burden to everyone, but with the help of my family and close friends I powered through that tough time and all the difficult times since. Surviving Me is meant to reach people who fight an internal battle every single day. Whether it be physical, mental, or emotional, everyone has something they battle with and it’s time we recognize the importance of facing these battles head on and be open and honest in order to heal. Who knows, your techniques and testimonies of how you survived your internal struggle may help the next person heal.