Iโve always struggled with stress like everyone does, but I developed a terrible coping skill which was to run away from it, pretending it didnโt exist. This led me to build up weeks, months and, in certain aspects, even years worth of pent-up emotions, problems and tasks.
I started feeling depressed all the time around the fall of 2014. My depression paired with anxiety lead me to a terrible place. I turned to video games as my number one escape. I abused them, using any excuse to keep playing so I could escape for that much longer. I became severely addicted, playing from when I got off work until 12-2 AM.
I didnโt go out anymore, didnโt hang out with anyone, I could barely get the motivation to go to the store and get food. After steadily destroying my future aspirations, neglecting and hating myself, and ultimately ruining my marriage, I hit rock bottom. I was alone, but I was finally broken free from the chains of fear.
I began rebuilding, finding new and healthy escapes that I would learn to do in moderation. The best of which is photography. Photography has become my passion, something I not only enjoy but see success for myself in it. I now am learning everyday on how to better myself and my photography skills. My life is turning around, day by day. My name is Matthew Robidou, and I am Triumphant.
Matthew
