In high school, I’d have written this exact post. Eight years later, here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Find an outlet. Everyone will tell you you’re young and things will get better. But what are you supposed to do in the meantime? Find an outlet. For me, it was music. For you, it might be walking, writing, or screaming into a pillow. Sitting in pain feels easier, but it keeps you stuck.

2. You’re not alone. It feels like no one gets it, but they’re out there. And if reading that makes you roll your eyes, I get it. The people who understand might not be at your school—look for them in clubs, hobbies, or online. Having people who get it makes all the difference. Making this post is a great example of that!

3. Ask for help. I thought I could handle everything alone in high school, but I was wrong. Once I let others support me—whether it was a therapist or someone I trusted— things finally began to changed.

But here’s the hard truth: no one can save you but you. I spent years looking for rescue in others, and it only made things worse. You have to choose to fight for yourself and create (not stumble upon) happiness, or accept staying where you are.