Katie's Story: Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing Self-Belief

My name is Katie, and I’m 19 years old. 
 
I came from a place where I never really believed in myself, and didn’t think it was possible to. I struggled with anxiety, and was put onto medication for depression, I was then put on the waiting list for Sheffield Futures. 
 
I had to wait a few months, but it was definitely worth it. I started therapy in February of 2024. 
 
I had never thought about learning to drive, and going to counselling, it wasn’t even something that I intended to talk about as I never believed I would be able to learn how to drive. My counsellor brought up my anxieties surrounding driving and within that one session, I went home that night and booked my first ever driving lesson. 
 
Flash forward to January 3rd 2025, not even a year since my first ever therapy session, I passed my practical driving test with just 4 minors! I felt proud of myself for once, and I genuinely believe that if it weren’t for talking about my anxieties with my counsellor, I would never have booked that lesson and therefore learnt how to drive. 
 
It has given me freedom, and belief in myself, so much so that I am now planning on opening to own business! I am so grateful for the people at Sheffield Futures and especially my councillor. 
 
They create such a safe and welcoming environment which is completely judgement free, and all the staff are incredibly friendly and understanding. 
 
Speaking to someone outside of your family offers an alternative perspective on what you’re going through, and it’s so much easier to open up to them. 
 
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of Sheffield Futures, I am incredibly thankful that I put myself on that waiting list.