RISE ABOVE - © 2016 by Clarissa Allred
Words, music, & video produced by Clarissa Allred Accompaniment & arrangement- Brandon Southwick Audio engineer- Jacob Southwick
It is often difficult to express how I feel into words; to know what to say in my everyday interaction with others. That’s one of the reasons why I love the arts so much.
“When words fail, music speaks"
So I will sing. I’ll write a poem and dance my feelings out. And I will act. Sometimes we are unaware of the fact that so many of us, including myself, put on a show. Not that we’re trying to deceive per se, but we are hiding the hurt. The world might see a comedy or musical, but inside, a tragedy might be written. It can be so easy to judge others and feel jealous as we compare our weaknesses to others’ highlight reels—to what is only seen on the surface. But we forget that everyone is fighting a hidden battle. We all have our own personal struggles. And I think, being a little more kind, understanding, and sensitive to what others’ are going through, will go a long way. Less comparing and more compassion.
Well, I’ve decided that I am done hiding.
No more façade that everything is okay. Conforming to the social norm is just plain exhausting. Playing the role that you believe others expect from you, hoping to not “get figured out”—that you are actually a very anxious, self-conscious person with a low self-esteem—only adds to the anxiety.
In general, I know that I am beyond blessed to have such amazing family who love me; to have my faith and know my purpose in life; to have so many comforts and freedoms. There is a lot to be grateful for. But sometimes, being happy is easier said than done.
I have struggled with chronic depression and anxiety most of my life, but about 7 years ago, it became worse and I finally decided to get professional help. And I’m very thankful that I did. Besides Major Depression and Generalized & Social Anxiety, I recently ended up discovering that I have ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Type and Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder as well. I was diagnosed at age 25.
As I look back on my life, it all makes sense to me now. There have been so many little things through the years that I figured were just apart of my personality—quirks, or even negative traits. And I would get down on myself, thinking, “what’s wrong with me?” This has affected my self-esteem for so long. Now I know my brain is literally wired differently.
I have become stronger because of my trials. I now have greater empathy and understanding for others who have similar difficulties. My hope is to spread awareness; to inspire and uplift others, primarily through music.
If you are struggling emotionally or spiritually, or in any other way—you are not alone and you are stronger than you know. Please seek professional help. Surround yourself with people that care and support you. And choose to stay. Your life matters.
I am so thankful for the power of prayer and for the atonement of Jesus Christ. He suffered not only for our sins, but for all our pain and sorrows. He understands what we’re going through. My faith has helped me to keep things in perspective and I'm so thankful for God's guidance, comfort, and all that He has blessed me with in my life.
October 7-13th is “Mental Health Awareness Week,” with October 10th being “World Mental Health Day.” October is also “ADHD Awareness Month.” There are a lot of misconceptions out there; let’s stop the stigma. It's okay to not be okay.
Please take the time to listen and share this song I wrote, titled, “Rise Above.” Thank you to all those who helped me with this project (Sarah Southwick, Nick & Ana Gines, Nathan Brown). And many thanks to my wonderful family and friends for your love and support.
Like my music page - www.facebook.com/ClarissaAllredMusic
Check out some other articles I wrote about mental health:
"Inside My Mind" (about ADHD)
I also recommend reading this book that has helped me, "On the Bright Side: Feeling Good When Things Seem Bad" (particularly for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).
RISE ABOVE
Tears fall like rain
Trapped in this dark hole again
Stuck in the quick sand
I have no will to stand
I cannot move
I'm losing traction
Give me distraction
What should I do?
Cars racing in my head
Such heavy traffic
There is no end
Floating, fading
Anticipating
Cluttered with debris
Is anyone there
I'm gasping for air
Oh I can't breathe
But I fight and I try to hang on
To withstand the winds that are oh so strong
This is my song
Never give up, never give in
Block out the noise that hungers to win
That says you're not good enough
But you will rise above
Oh, you will rise above
I see it in black and white
It's gotta be just right
But everything changes
Don't know what time is
Thoughts wash away
I have no motivation
Help me with this frustration
I kneel down to pray
So I fight and I try to hang on
To withstand the winds that are oh so strong
This is our song
Never give up, never give in
Block out the noise that hungers to win
That says you're not good enough
But you will rise above
You are loved
You are brave
You are bright
You are beautiful
You belong
Just believe
I know it's difficult
But you're a miracle
One step at a time
I'm ready to climb
Never give up, never give in
Block out the noise that hungers to win
That says you're not good enough
But you will rise above
Never give up, never give in
Block out the noise that hungers to win
That says you're not good enough
But you will rise above
Oh, you will rise above
You are not alone
Just rise above
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