"Hi! I’m Anna Katherine from Birmingham, Alabama and I’m wearing my white A.W.A.R.E necklace to represent mental health awareness! I’ve struggled with severe anxiety and depression since I was 13. My middle and high school memories mostly consist of debilitating panic attacks in the school bathrooms and self-harming. After my breakdowns, I would have to put on a smile and pretend like everything was okay. I remember being so ashamed of having to hide my scars and my red, puffy eyes after crying so much. I want to share my story because I don’t want anyone to ever feel alone and shame about how they feel. It’s so important to end the stigma and talk about our mental health! I created @mental.blog to have a positive and open-minded space to discuss mental health and help fight against the stigma! Thank you AWARE causes for giving me this platform to be able to share my story!" @mental.blog