“I constantly felt worried. I woke up each and every morning, realizing that life was slowly suffocating me. I felt as though I couldn’t breathe, nor could I enjoy the simple pleasures that once gave me so much happiness. I had worked so hard to create a career, find independence and thrive in a long-term loving relationship, but none of it seemed like it was enough.

“There is nothing worse than feeling empty. I wondered how it was possible to feel lonely, even though I was constantly surrounded by people. I knew it was time to seek counselling after one, particularly prominent, panic attack I experienced on a sunny Sunday morning.

“I had never received counselling before this. A friend recommended Calgary Counselling Centre, it was flexible with my schedule and easy to access. I started the process with individual counselling before joining the Self-Esteem group program.

“At first, I felt a mixture of emotions. Relief. Guilt. Uncertainty. Sadness.

“Talking about issues, especially the ones I didn’t realize were issues, was one of the hardest experiences I’ve ever had to face. As an English teacher, I am aware of the overt power of words. Once something is spoken, it almost takes on a life of its own – it becomes real in a sense.

“My counsellor was amazing. The questions she posed did not inflict a sense of judgment, but were curious and thought provoking. I felt comfortable being honest with her, and that is rare in a world where appearances of strength and competency drive our every action.

“After several sessions, she challenged me to push myself into the direction I had always wanted to go in, but had been too scared. The steps I took towards growth were my own, but she supported me through feedback and guidance. She gave me a multitude of tools to work with.

“I found filling out the survey, before and after sessions, to be really powerful. Initially, the questions made me think of areas in my life that I frequently ignored or assumed were not connected to my feelings of inadequacy. Each time I attended, I knew what to look for, and was more conscious of the areas in my life that I needed to nurture and attend to. I also liked the fact that I was able to see how far I had come, it was a great way to visualize my progress and how life has its hiccups.

“Mid-way through treatment I was at my lowest. I had broken up with my boyfriend of six years, but once I allowed myself to process the huge life-decision, my progress went on a steady incline.

“Now, I feel great. My students have noticed a difference in me. I have been laughing again and now I can enjoy my days without feeling overwhelmed and anxious. I realize now that life will always be full of curve-balls, but now I have the tools to cope with the hardships when they come.

“My mom asked me if going to counselling was worth it, and I told her it was the best thing I have ever done for myself.”

Katherine – 26