Mental health is a very important part of my life- from my daily routine, my family relationships, and my time at college- it all plays a significant role in my life. I have been diagnosed with disorders such as depression and anxiety, which can be real struggles for me to deal with- especially with college work added to the mix. Most college students also deal with at least some type of disorder or possible issue that will affect their mental health. This can be induced by stress, working a job, or dealing with peer relations. Often, students may struggle with finding a group of friends to trust and spend time with. As most students today are pursuing a career or focusing so much on classwork, finding time for leisure may be hard. However, with these things in mind- this is why I can understand just how important college student mental health is. My mental health story dates to several years, at least from when I was fifteen or younger. I had been struggling with OCD and compulsiveness more over time, and I was suggested to meet with a therapist. Although I did not stay with my first therapist, I learned that seeing mental health professionals such as case managers, therapists, and doctors would be key to my personal journey. I use coping skills, activities such as journaling and exercise, and opening up to my family to help with my mental health. I also have met with my case manager for college to discuss classwork or possible struggles that I may be experiencing. I realize that through these things, mental health can have a huge impact on who I am and how I act. Anger, sadness, and depression if not managed well enough, can have a severe impact on my grades and relationships. I like to see my mental health as very important because it not only affects me, but it affects my family and those I plan to assist in the coming years with my psychology degree. I plan to obtain a bachelor’s or higher and work with individuals who are adolescents or young adults. Everything regarding my college experience, my mindset, and much more can be affected by my mental state and how I compose myself emotionally. I maintain my wellness by going to my regularly scheduled appointments through the local community mental health branch in my town, speaking to those I trust, and sharing my experience or knowledge with others. I am prescribed my medicine and take them as I should along with attending therapy sessions quite often. Additionally, whenever an issue arises, I tell my parents as soon as I can about the situation. The key factor in avoiding a crisis is to speak to someone you trust and let them know what is happening. This can prevent a mental health crisis or the possibility of being taken to a psychiatric hospital for worse complications. College is a matter of importance because it is a guide or steppingstone for a possibly better career for most people. Most people who enter college do so because they have a real drive to further their education. Sadly, this can be hindered by poor mental health and support. Allowing for support, diminishing stigma, and accepting good criticism are additional parts of having a better mental health while in college.

Psychology has been a passionate subject I have adored for many years. I started my learning for psychology and mental health around the twelfth grade when I opted to take an introductory course into psychology for my dual enrollment year. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about many subjects regarding mental health, anxiety, depression, and what happens within the human mind. Psychology is a fascinating topic for me, and it is because of that dual enrollment course I took through Southeastern Technical College that an interest in the subject matter grew. I find psychology or mental health to be a truly vital part of our daily lives- from relationships, families, and even our careers- it all plays a huge role because it affects how we process actions and take in thoughts. Mental health is a topic I’m very invested in. I am currently about to move forward into my junior year of college at Middle Georgia State University and so far, have taken many courses related to sociology and psychology. I am hoping to enter this memorial scholarship and others to help my career path. I come from a family that deals with significant mental health struggles and have a low income. My father is partially disabled due to a work accident around the year 2006, whereas my mother cannot work currently due to taking care of my grandparents. Anxiety, autism, OCD, ADHD, and depression are just a few of the disorders that run in my family. I am diagnosed with most of these and know what it is like to struggle with anxiety and depression. Suicide is another saddening factor that has run in my family as well and I am one that also struggles with these types of ideations. However, through reaching out to a therapist, a doctor, and community leaders in my area, my life has improved, and I have made great progress regarding my own mental health. I want to work with people who may struggle the same as I do or once have, so that they know they are not alone. I know fully what it is like to feel as though you have to “bottle” your emotions or hide the pain from your own family. I can understand the situation about Mattie and why stigma may prevent others from getting the help they need. Stigma is something that is a problem in our society and it is mainly directed at subjects such as mental health, the LGBT, and those who are deemed “not normal” by societal standards. I have heard and seen many cases where people were bullied or targeted harshly based on their mental health. It is a sad fact that this is still occurring today, and I hope over time that this changes for the better. Mental health and psychology are vast subjects that should be taken seriously no matter if it is a child or an adult in a struggling situation. As for why I am very passionate about this subject, it is because I highly enjoy discovering concepts of the human mind and why we act the way we do. I have enjoyed my sociology and psychology courses a lot over the years. I have also volunteered with young children and teenagers through the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia located in Dublin, GA. I want people to know that although most of the mental health is center focused on adults, children also deal with these same issues at a young age. This is why I am hoping to aid younger individuals and receive potential scholarships in the future.