Depression and anxiety are not feelings run amok. They are mental illnesses, and they suck. When they are active, every minute of every day is so much harder. Some people don’t understand that. I certainly didn’t all those years ago when my moms symptoms grew beyond her control. I thought it was dumb that she chose to be so miserable. It’s not that hard to smile. Except, sometimes it really is that hard. Impossible, even.

Reading poetry can be a gentle companion letting you know that you aren’t the only person to feel this way. I offer this poem as a meditation, inviting you to pause, breathe, and find calm within, even if just for a moment.

Every year (in the U.S.), 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness. Anxiety is one of the most common, affecting 21% of adults every year. Depression affects 8% of adults and 15% of youth each year. It might be you. It might be someone you love. It might be both. So, let’s talk about it.

I can’t say with any certainty that I am viewed as having it all together. I have, however, been complimented for my ability to remain calm or to calm others. In my days as a project manager, it was a strength often highlighted in my performance reviews. One supervisor actually used to...