I was handed literature on OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and evidence-based treatments. I dove in headfirst. Mental health had always been close to my heart because I had struggled with anxiety since I was a teenager. I knew what it felt like to be overwhelmed by your own mind.

But then something unexpected happened.

I started taking intake calls.

Every day, people courageously shared their fears, intrusive thoughts, symptoms, and struggles with me. As I listened, I kept finding myself thinking:

"Wait... doesn't everyone think that way?"