I’ll happily admit to anyone that I’m afraid of heights. Giant swings and high ropes courses are not my activities during camp week. You may not guess that when you first see me, or you may, but not the important part. The point of this is to express that fears are not something to be ashamed of, but rather something to be aware of.

Fears are a natural part of life and it is important to acknowledge and express them. Fear can be defined as an intense feeling of concern or anxiety in response to a perceived threat. This emotion is a survival mechanism that helps protect us from harm, but it can also become a hindrance when it takes over our thoughts and affects our daily lives.

One of the biggest misconceptions about fear is that it is something to be ashamed of or hidden. However, it is important to remember that everyone experiences fear and it is a normal part of the human experience. By acknowledging and expressing our fears, we can work through them and reduce their hold on our lives.

One way to express fears is through talking to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, teacher or mental health professional. By sharing your fears with someone else, you can gain a new perspective and receive support in working through them.

Writing down your fears can also be a helpful tool for expressing and processing them. Keeping a journal or writing letters to yourself can help you to reflect on your fears and gain insight into why they may be affecting you. It is also important to practice self-care and engage in activities that bring you joy and calm. Exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature are just a few examples of ways to reduce stress and help manage fear.

Fear is an emotion experienced by all humans, some may choose to express it and some may choose to hide it. So, as we approach the assessment period, I invite you all to check in with someone close to you, regardless of their current emotion, because those who smile the most might be the ones who need it the most.