When I was a young girl, I can remember my Dad spending hours on his "routines". As he went through his nightly routines, he would be agitated and quickly would become angry. So, my family watched in silence, as he spent hours locking and relocking doors, setting alarms over and over again. His routines consumed our home life. 

At around the age of 8, I started my own routines. I would have to count everything and end on an even number. Every step, every bite, every letter, would be counted. At one point, I felt like my routines were taking over my life. Years later I would realize that this was Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. 

I feel as if I have dealt with mental illness for most of my life. I cannot remember a time when I didn't have to deal with OCD or anxiety. Some days are better than other days, but I have learned positive coping skills and have people who understand and support me on my mental health journey.  

I am grateful for organizations that focus on mental health and offer mental health services. There are people who care, who understand, and who offer support. This is what prompted me to work for Bell Socialization Services. They offer Mental Health Service Programs that make a difference every day. 

As a way to give back and show my support for Mental Health Service Programs, I support Bell this Giving Tuesday. I have seen firsthand how their programs change lives and empower people. Living with mental illness can be hard, but having people who understand, accept you, and support you is life-changing.