Mental health is often misunderstood especially in families like mine where pain is kept quiet and emotions are buried beneath survival. Growing up, I faced a childhood shadowed by verbal abuse from my parents. Their harsh words cut deeper than I ever thought possible. Because of how they treated me, I felt like I couldn’t talk to them about anything, not then, and even now, that distance remains. It was as if sharing my struggles would only bring more disappointment or anger so I learned to stay silent. Even my two older siblings who I looked up to, made me feel like I was unwanted or invisible. Feeling isolated and unseen at such a young age shaped my earliest understanding of loneliness and despair. There were many days when I felt completely alone, as if I had no one to turn to, not even family. But nothing impacted me more profoundly than the day my older brother attempted to take his own life. Witnessing that moment shattered my world and forced my family and me to confront pain we had long tried to ignore. Afterward, we began going to therapy together to support him and heal as a family. I was so young then, and sitting in those therapy sessions was overwhelming. It was hard to process the raw emotions in the room. The fear, the sadness, and the hope all together. At the same time, those sessions opened my eyes to how mental health struggles affect not just the individual, but everyone around them. It was the first time I realized healing required openness and effort from all of us. Therapy was challenging, but it became a lifeline. It gave me the tools to understand my own emotions and trauma, to forgive myself and others, and to start building healthier relationships. It also revealed the truth I had long denied, that mental health is not a weakness but a vital part of well being that needs care and attention. My experience with mental health has deeply shaped my goals. I want to pursue a career where I can support others facing similar struggles especially young people who feel isolated and misunderstood like I once did. I am passionate about creating safe spaces and advocating for mental health awareness, breaking down the stigma that keeps many from seeking help. In my relationships, I strive to be patient, empathetic, and authentic. Knowing what it feels like to be unseen, I am intentional about truly listening and being present for others. I recognize the power of connection and the healing it can bring. Finally, my understanding of the world has grown more compassionate and complex. I see how mental health challenges are often invisible battles fought in silence, influenced by trauma, family dynamics, and societal pressures. I believe that addressing mental health openly can transform communities and foster resilience. Though my journey has been difficult, it has made me stronger and more determined. Mental health is not just a personal challenge, it is a collective one. By sharing my story and advocating for awareness, I hope to inspire others to seek help, build meaningful connections, and approach the world with greater understanding and kindness.