When I first registered for a class called “Stress Management” I thought it would just be another class (recommended by my mom, of course) that would prepare me for how to manage my life a little better. What I didn’t expect is that it would teach me so much about how mental health affects day-to-day life and how it has to be managed and have time dedicated to it in order to live a positive life.
In high school, my mental health was poor, as I was constantly struggling with classes, friendships, and fitting in. It was something that I didn’t really have time to pay attention to, even though I knew it was important. I thought it would only get worse in college because everyone told me it would be much harder than high school in terms of academics and social life. However, when I first got to Arizona State University, all I felt was calm. The campus was green, the people were friendly, and the classes were fulfilling. Eventually, I had to learn to say no to social pressures and many of the things that come with living on a college campus, but I realized that putting my mental health first was something that I needed to prioritize.
In freshman year, I refused to use a planner or calendar. I wanted to prove to everyone that I could survive on my own, no help necessary. I struggled a lot with remembering things and planning out my schedule, and when I got to my second year, I knew something needed to change. I now see calendars and planners as tools to help guide and support me, and I make sure to sit down and check my email every morning to ensure I’m not missing anything. I use sticky notes and reminders on my phone to help me remember social events and due dates, and I keep everything color-coded to make it easier for me to see what events I have going on.
I also love to take walks around campus and people-watch from the library. There is a special spot at ASU called the Secret Garden, and while it’s not so secret anymore, I love to go and bring a picnic blanket to sit, eat lunch, and study for classes. At the main library, a whole wall is windows, and I stay for hours working and watching people walk across the main lawn. Having these special and serene moments to myself makes me aware of my thoughts and allows me to focus on what I need at the time, whether it be for myself or for others.
I focus on mental health intensely because I want to make sure I am a good person for myself and the people around me. I am working on my undergraduate degree, but after I graduate I want to attend law school. I have heard many horror stories about how law school is terrible for mental health and how many students crumble under the pressure. I want to make sure I set myself up for success and allow my brain to process and overcome any struggles I may have now and in the future.
Mental health is something that everyone should pay attention to. It allows people to live a positive or negative life simply based on how you treat it. I am committed to ensuring my life is positive and my struggles are overcome, and focusing on my mental health is a surefire way to do that.