Today, October 10th, is World Mental Health Day! Started in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, this international day was created to destigmatize the conversation around mental health. Every year has had a different area of focus, and this year it’s ‘Mental Health at Work’. Over 60 million Americans have a mental illness, and over half do not receive treatment, according to Today. This is the harsh reality of living in a world that silences open discussion about mental health. So today, take the opportunity to reflect, speak openly, and advocate for your mental health.
For me personally, I reflect on the focus of this year as a student- according to VeryWellmind, suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. That truly frightening statistic is oftentimes caused by a lack of support system in a new environment, making students feel alone and isolated. Even I have felt the stress that a daunting new environment like college can be- but there are many many ways students can fight this feeling. Being active in clubs, athletics, and other school activities and programs can help students make friends and feel involved in their community. Personally, I’m involved in my school’s LGBTQ+ club, which has helped me to make like minded friends. Additionally, the increased workload of college can be challenging for freshmen, as a lot more is expected of the students. My advice? Ask for help when you need it, work together with your classmates to find solutions, and create a way to organize your schedule to set aside time for homework and studying. If you struggle to study at home, make the most of your college’s facilities! The library is a great place to ‘lock in’ and get some work done without distractions. Even with activities and an organized schedule, students still might feel overwhelmed. Sometimes, you need a break from all of the excitement of this new stage in life- make sure you take frequent breaks to spend time with friends and family, or dedicate time to hobbies you enjoy. Setting time aside to charge your social battery and take a break from college life can be extremely beneficial for your mental health.
Another professional part of my life is, of course, pageantry. As much as it is a hobby I am honored to be able to participate in, I know through personal experience that having a title is a job unlike any other. On social media, these queens are constantly posting about their work with their service initiatives, working around the clock to help their communities. Holding a title can be extremely stressful, and it’s important to still make time for yourself, and the person you are outside of the sash and crown. As pageant girls who have reigned before will tell you, holding a title is not easy- so ladies, make sure to check up on your sister queens, and ask for help if you need it- you’ve got a whole community ready to support you in the same way you support them.
Overall, the most important part of World Mental Health Day is to remember that you are not alone. Whatever you might be going through, there are others who are fighting alongside you. So share your stories, listen to the stories of others, and together we can create a brighter future.
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