Therapy isn't an option for everyone. Stressors are a pervasive struggle that many people must face, especially low-income students like me. For a long time, mental health felt like an abstract concept, a luxury I couldn't afford. It took me a while, through trial and error, to truly grasp its importance and how to prioritize it. Looking back, I often neglected myself, putting academic pressures and financial worries first. But with each challenge, I've grown, becoming the more resilient person I am today. A few years ago, the world unraveled. Schools shut down, and reports of a new global pandemic, the "Corona Virus," spread almost rapidly. I initially brushed it off as a break. March 13th was the promised reopening date, but things only worsened. Grocery stores were emptied, and six-foot social distancing stickers became a common sight. I met new faces, but only their eyes were visible, their voices becoming their defining feature. Covid locked me into isolation. Covid cut off all social interaction. I missed my friends, I missed my school, and the freedom I once had, with no end in sight. My daily routine became even more depressing: online classes, dinner, then going back to my room. I found myself taking naps out of pure somber. One day, I put on a YouTube video about nature, which sparked an inspiration in me to go outside. As I took a walk, my mood improved almost instantly. The fresh air, sunlight, and sounds of the neighborhood began to lift the heavy cloud. I realized trapping myself indoors, disconnected from nature, was harming my mental health. These walks became my lifeline, giving my life a much-needed sense of purpose. This period of self-reflection led to a critical realization: my constant napping and withdrawal weren't normal; my actions were hindering my well-being. This encouraged me to research other ways to improve my mental health. I discovered that small, meaningful interactions and, surprisingly, volunteering made me feel genuinely wholesome and connected. Contributing to something larger provided a fulfillment that walks alone couldn't. Today, I'm profoundly thankful for that challenging period. It revealed what poor mental health looks like and how it can break someone down. I'm glad that I learned, firsthand, that prioritizing my mental health is fundamental to a life worth living. With this new self-awareness and wisdom, I feel a powerful drive to advocate for others struggling. I like to share to my friends the methods that helped me, offering them strategies and, more importantly, hope. This desire led me to join my school's Sources of Strength program which is a group that advocates for mental health. I believe that I can make a tangible difference within my peers and community, creating an environment where mental well-being is openly discussed and supported. As a student that faces many difficulties, it's not always easy, but it is always vital to remember to prioritize your own mental well-being.