I'm Still Here
Category Details
This section is an in-depth dive into the I'm Still Here category and what it is comprised of. It includes what was counted in this category for this project, how much of the total this category makes up, and more. Read into the specifics below.
What answers are included?
The I'm Still Here category has one of the widest ranges of responses. Answers about getting up every day and trying your best, choosing to stay and live another day, and working to overcome challenges are counted here. "I am strong" is also grouped in this category. Some examples include "I can get through hard things", "I'm still here", "I can ask for help if I need it," and "I am enough."
How does it rank?
The I'm Still Here category was the 5th highest ranked of the ten categories. It counts for 12% of the total, only 0.7% less than fourth place. 92 of the 757 total answers came from this group.
What are the most common answers?
In each category, the responses were recorded and tallied to find the most common themes. Each answer was then reviewed again and, if applicable, counted towards the subtype it fits. In the I'm Still Here category, the top four answers are as follows:
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I can get through hard things (24)
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I'm strong (18)
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I'm still here (13)
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I'm trying my best (12)
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The first includes any answers about perseverance and overcoming the hardships life has to offer. The second includes any answers regarding strength. Answers such as "I am strong enough to keep going" counted here. The third has answers about still being alive. The last includes answers about trying my best and getting up and trying to have a good day each day.
Interpreting the answers
What is good/bad about this response?
With regard to self image, I'm Still Here answers are positive and effective answers. Still, one of the best ways to understand them further is to view the positive and negative aspects of them.
Pros:​
- You are still here and trying your best despite your struggles.
- "I'm strong" and "I am enough" answers put value and power in yourself
- This category represents healthy and supportive self-talk, through encouraging words and positive affirmations.
Cons:
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The only potential con would come from not living and thriving but just getting through the day, but the answers show a desire and effort to improve and keep going.
How does this affect mental health?
I'm Still Here answers show a very positive effect on mental health. The theme that is streamlined through this category is the desire to improve and grow to get better mentally and create a positive life for yourself. These answers are very motivating and encouraging, and have a strong self-image. The message of continuing to push through and fight even when it is hard or you may not want to is very inspiring, and demonstrates the good that can come from determination and effort. These answers are incredibly positive and are all a very good message for mental health.
Take action!
Each category with less than 95 answers is shortened due to the amount of information and data provided.
Going from surviving to thriving
How to Move from Surviving to Thriving
This article includes a short story about overcoming adversity and gives a few examples of how to get the joy and excitement back into your life.
While in crisis mode, it can be very hard to weather through the day, much less imagine having to continue to get up and be a productive, positive person. Even getting out of bed can seem like a colossal task. But you being here and pushing through another day is an achievement in itself. When your mental health and self-image are in the trenches, it can seem like nothing is possible and life will never be enjoyable again. And when you start to come up and out of that feeling, integrating back into the world can feel very intimidating. And while surviving is commendable, thriving is the goal. One thing that can help get you integrated back into life and happy again is to have some consistent social interactions. Dedicating a time and a date to meet up with friends or catch up with family can be a big help in transitioning back into socialization after isolation. Joining a club or class that meets on a schedule is also a great way to meet people and find joy in life. Taking the time to appreciate the little things can also improve your gratitude for life and all it has to give. The smell of your favorite candle, a hot shower after a long day, a good meal, the sunshine, everything! Beauty and life are all around you, you just have to take the time to look around.