But it’s okay to be scared love

For the past couple of days, I’ve been glued to my social media apps, which is driving me insane. My mind juggles new online content with the thoughts already swirling in my head. It may sound silly, but the brain doesn’t distinguish between smart and stupid; rather, it recognizes what’s difficult or easy, happy or sad.

Facing My Fears

Lately, fear has taken hold of me. I worry about things I can’t see right now, but I fear they might happen. Am I strong enough to handle them? Topics like death, assaults on women, societal pressure, health issues, concerns about my family’s well-being, aging pets, my career, passions, art, love, marriage, and a terrifying partner all feel like the index of my anxiety book.

Reels to Understand Mental Health

Recently, I saw a few reels on my “For You” page. One focused on mental health with a line that stuck with me: “You are not broken, and you don’t need to be fixed. What you’re feeling right now are normal human emotions—it’s okay to feel them.” Another reel delivered a similar message: “You don’t need to be fixed. You are living a normal life. We see people on social media constantly telling us how to improve and leave scrolling habits behind. But maybe scrolling is the only way you can interact with others, feel that you’re not alone, and find peace—and that’s okay.”

Reflecting on the Past and Present

So, why am I discussing this? Often, people around me reminisce about the “golden olden days,” claiming life was better without the internet and phones. This made me wonder: Could I have survived in the past? Honestly, I’m not sure.

The Internet’s Role in Our Lives

I’m not saying that people without phones couldn’t survive; however, mobile phones, especially the internet, have simplified many aspects of life for us. Unfortunately, the things we feel or experience can be dark. Some people mask their feelings, others move past them, and some carry them for life. Additionally, loneliness often accompanies these emotions. Nevertheless, the internet offers another world—a place that feels like an escape from the often terrifying reality. It brings comfort, knowing we can retreat to a place that’s always evolving, safe, and reassuring.

Learning to Live with Fear and Moving Forward

Doomscrolling and other bad habits distract us from recurring, frightening thoughts. However, it’s scary to leave your safe space and step into reality. Instead of pretending otherwise, I’ll admit that fear is what I’m feeling right now. I can’t stop these fears, but I can’t stop living my life either. Pursuing my passions, working toward my career, and exercising to stay healthy—these are things I must do. While fear is present, it won’t stop me, and I don’t want to stop.