You aren't alone

Mental Health Can Hit Anyone

Not to brag but, I was Valedictorian, captain of the Mock Trial Team, and a very happy person in high school. Or this is how it seemed to most people. I was the “perfect” student, “perfect” child, and “perfect” old sister and friend. However, I was suffering from an invisible disease. I was constantly self-conscious and barely able to wake up most mornings. I had MDD or major depressive disorder. Over 16 million adults suffer from depression at some point in their life according to the World Health Organization. So even If you are suffering, or think you are, you aren’t alone. And the university wants to help.

It may be hard for you to speak out or ask for help, but it’s a step we should all try and take before things seem to reach that breaking point, because that typically means suicide attempts. The university has counseling services, but from other people’s accounts it’s not all that great. I did however have a few accounts with the housing staff psychologist Demontea.  On the other hand, they do have peer groups on many different topics. Including relationships, and school stress. These are probably better suited for people who aren’t familiar with therapy. Being in a group setting also helps to reinforce that you aren’t alone. Who knows maybe you’ll even make a new friend!