Sometime when I feel stressed or overwhelmed I struggle to put my thoughts in words, so here is an analogy that I use to explain how I feel and maybe this may help you.

The thoughts in my head and body sometimes feel as though I have a weight around my ankle that is pulling me under water.
I can see the sun shining through the surface of the water which is just in front of me.
I know that if I could just swim up a little, I can reach some air but as much as I try to swim, I just cannot reach the surface for air.

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