The Deep End with Devon Youmans

Devon Youmans, a friend of Youswim's, is a South Californian-based content creator who recently graduated as a Chemical Engineering Major.

We talk about her life post-university, how she maintains her identity and sense of self online, and her experiences with anxiety.

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As a content creator, a lot of your life is shared online. How do you maintain a healthy sense of self and relationship with your body in an image-focused world?


While I love sharing my life online, I know the most important thing is how my life feels in the real world. I make sure to spend time around people who speak positively about themselves and others and I feel that it truly does rub off on me.


Some of my favourite things to do to make sure I’m maintaining a healthy relationship with my body are to get outside, go for a walk, go for a swim, and do anything that involves fresh air and screen-free time.

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As a recent graduate, entering the "real world" can feel like a lot of pressure. What advice would you give to someone who might feel like they need to have it all figured out?


The reality of life post-grad is that it will never truly feel like you've got it all together. I have been out of college for five years and still wake up some days in a panic, wondering what I am doing with my life. My best piece of advice is that you don't ever have to have it all figured out.


There will be days when you feel so lost and on the wrong path, but when those days come, letting your curiosity lead you is what will give you the most clarity and direction.

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On YouTube, you've spoken about your panic attacks, being an introvert and experiencing anxious thoughts. How do you manage these feelings? And what would you say to someone who feels overwhelmed by them? 


I had my first panic attack when I was in my freshman year of college, and it was such a foreign feeling to me. The scariest thing was that I didn't think it was normal. I have always loved being alone, but this was a new level that felt more like loneliness, which I think is very different.


If you are someone who experiences anxious thoughts, just know that it is not only you! You are not on an island alone and there are an endless number of ways to find help. Therapy has been a huge help to me in understanding my feelings and finding better ways to cope with them. I would highly suggest that anyone who is going through mental battles of their own to look into therapy!

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What is one thing you would say to your younger self?


When I was younger, I was such a worrier. I was worried about the most insignificant things but at the time, it did feel like life-changing circumstances. I would tell her to stop worrying so much.


There is plenty of time to accomplish all that I set my mind to and no shortage of time to be everything you want to be and more! 


Where is your favourite place to swim?


Anywhere on the Mediterranean! My favourites are Cap D’Ali in France, Milos, Greece, and Cala Petita in Mallorca!

What's your favourite Youswim swimsuit?


Yuzu is most definitely my favourite colour and my favourite style would have to be the Aplomb top and  Standard Waist bottoms!

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