There are several levels of anxiety. A normal person has a fear level, a jump-scare level, and a nightmare level. Adison Cole’s levels are all one notch higher. Someone’s jump-scare level is her normal level of fear. Someone’s nightmare is her jump-scare. Ever since the end of sixth grade, Cole has dealt with depression and social anxiety. She went from talkative to reserved and shy. Talking to new people became a struggle when she was alone. Cole imagines the scenarios being played out that the person doesn’t like her or accept her. This fear makes meeting new people a difficult task.

Cole went into middle school thinking she would have no friends and never be able to make any new ones. This fear has affected her school dynamic as well. She participates less out of fear of getting laughed at by her peers if she slips up. Her fears are over exaggerated, small things festering and growing into terror.

However, Cole has found ways around this problem. Being with friends helps make her feel secure and free to be herself. She feels less affected by the anxiety when she is surrounded by people she knows and trusts. Cole explains why she wanted to share on this sensitive topic: “I just don’t want people thinking that I think I’m better than them. I don’t. I’m scared of them.”

If you are struggling with depression or anxiety and are seeking help you can text “HOPELINE” to 741741 for trained crisis counselors 24/7. The Outagamie County Crisis line is 920-832-4646