Similar feelings and in being in a similar situation and place.

I was in a relationship that was very unhealthy for me. Ultimately it’s my fault for staying in it longer than I should have, but I had to remove my self from this addictive habit of negative thinking & retrain my brain. I remember also relying on cough medicine to just to try and shut off my brain and get some rest, or a break from it.

It wasn’t easy, but you have to climb back into the light one step at a time. I hope some of these things and steps can add some help my brother.

I started with first- I couldn’t stand the thought of the pain I would cause my mom and my siblings if I took my life.

Second, I started being grateful, I thanked God for ten things every day. It was hard to hate life, when I realized how blessed I was.

Third, I actually started looking at my self in the mirror forcing my self to smile and giving my self affirmations. It was hard to be upset with my self with a smile on my face.

Fourth, I made my self a playlist of uplifting thoughts and positive lyrics. Songs that talked about overcoming trials and becoming better. It even had “you’re the best” from the karate kid on it.

Fifth, you have to invest in your self, it’s hard to think straight when you aren’t doing these three things. Eating, sleeping, and exercising. It builds endorphins! Those three things are daily musts. The most confident of men, would start to get anxious, depressed, and have negative thoughts if they aren’t doing these three things.

Sixth, celebrate the smallest of wins, it’s empowering. Rid your self of negative people that don’t lift you up. Surround your self with positive people that believe in you!

You got this, you can do it, we believe in you, we want you here, and we love you! I don’t even know you and I would talk to you on the phone or visit you when I came to Cedar City!

Hang in there my friend, if you could see your life in a few years, you will be jumping for joy! The future is bright, I know it’s hard to see light at the end of the tunnel. But fight tooth and nail to see that light, one step at a time and let it be empowering!!

The Savior loves you. Many love you, get your self in a healthy place and you will bless the lives of many!