When I was in 8th grade I developed severe depression. I began self-harming daily and became very suicidal. Eventually, I started going to therapy and was medicated. Every year since, I always relapse and have to go back into therapy. I have attempted suicide four times, none of which anyone found out about. I had also struggled with eating disorders although I kept it a secret and was never diagnosed. Going through therapy and reaching out to others who have suffered from mental health has shown me why I suffered and why God allowed it to happen. I know that God let these things happen to me for a reason and I firmly believe it is so I can help others. I am going to attend college for a bachelor's degree in social work so that I can become a therapist. Ever since I first started going to therapy, I knew that I belonged. I love helping other people and even though it is a very difficult job and not the best paying job, it is very rewarding. If I can help even one person cope or change their mind to commit suicide, it will all be worth it. I long to help people and I am very excited that I have found a job that I will love. Even though school is difficult for me, I will not give up. Even if my own mental health tries to drag me down, I will not let it. I will reach out and get help, even if it is for the sole reason of a future patient. I will not let my own mental health control me or my future. My mental health had actually brought my parents and me closer together. I lived most of my childhood believing that my mom hated me. When she found out, we had a lot of very long and emotional talks. I know she loves me, but she has trouble showing it while she also is suffering from depression. While my dad does not like talking about anything regarding mental health, he and I defiantly improved our relationship. He shows more emotion and his caring nature towards me much more than he did. My mental health has shown me who is really a friend and who is not. My best friend is my best friend today because she found out about my self-harm and she never went a day without talking to me and ensuring that I was safe. Since I dealt with my depression, it helps me notice much more about people. Such as long sleeves in the summer, excuses not to eat, exhaustion, bruises, and the list goes on. It has opened my eyes to the reality of the world. Most people have suffered in one way or another with mental health but they never get diagnosed or help. I want to help these people, the ones who don't know how to or why they feel the way they do. This career will be worth everything I have gone through or will go through. If I can prevent self-harm or suicide for even one person, it will all be worth it.