"Breathe in. Breathe out. It's going to be ok; you are going to be ok. You can handle this one step at a time." I have a few friends who suffer from anxiety disorders, and I know their anxiety makes life much more difficult. To help those around me who suffer from anxiety, I try not to be unpredictable. I remind my friends that they are great at what they can do. Though I know it may not help, I try to prevent adding to their state of being overwhelmed. I know that I can help people around me by making their lives just a little bit easier if possible. Outside of therapy, having a good supportive community can help. A person suffering from anxiety should surround themselves with people who will help them out when they need it. I would suggest to my peer to find a good group of friends, which will go a long way to assist in alleviating the fear of negative reactions from others. True friends will always help them find a way out of their worries. The most important thing to do when someone is experiencing a panic attack is to make sure that they are comfortable, make sure that whatever is causing the problem is gone, and help them relax from their panicked state. Though many people suffer from anxiety, many get help. There are various ways to handle worry and anxiety, but not all work for everyone. I would advise my peers to learn how to treat their anxiety in the way that works best for them. Despite my efforts, I have learned that the world is not a kind and accepting place for those who need extra help, but that makes me only want to help more.

It’s seven thirty-eight PM, the whole band is exhausted, and there are only a few minutes left of practice. Usually, at the end of practice, everyone would be pushing their hardest; however, today was remarkably slow. There is a general dread of having to do another twelve hours tomorrow. Our band directors said, “All right band, take five for water then, set up for a full run.” As tuba section leader, I felt that my crew needed a pep-talk. “Okay guys, I know we had a long day today, and you all are tired from this exhausting week, but this is what it’s all about - the performances. Every time you come out here to practice and throw down, the directors are ecstatic. I know you all have it in you, and that you can show the band directors that this week will be the best first week of band camp that they have ever seen!” As I look at their faces, I see their eyes light up. I could feel that this performance would be one of our best because these people were fired up! Afterward, the directors were floored with how well we did and told us, “Great job band!” This experience will never leave me. I was the reason my group was solid steel, and all of our hard work was paying off. This experience helped me realize I had more potential as a leader than I had thought. As a result, I’ve become a leader for activities when my friends ask for help.