I grew up in an immigrant household, immersed in a culture that belittled the use of therapy and stigmatized mental illness as a personal weakness. Since I was growing up in a much different environment than my parents, one where I never had to think twice about having a roof over my head or food on my plate, they couldn't fathom that I could struggle mentally with anything. But I did. Since I was a child, I was a worrier. Although I didn't have a name for it then, my anxiety would infiltrate my everyday life. Starting in elementary school, I was consistently bullied and made fun of, for my financial situation, my looks, and my interests. It easily crushed my younger self's soul and hope. I turned to academics to fully give me the validation my peers wouldn't provide. I became so engrossed in it that I had a mental breakdown in middle school over not getting an A. I cried for hours. Although my struggles are superficial in comparison to others, I felt truly alone in those moments. No one cared for me, or so I thought, and I could never live up to the expectations I placed on myself. I tried to kill myself at 13. I felt so hopeless I truly thought I had nothing left to live for, even before starting high school. By the grace of God, my mother found me and was able to save me just in time. In desperation, she finally let me get help. But it wasn't until I learned to manage my emotions and get a truly supportive group of people in my life that I felt saved from my darkness. I still struggle every day and work to not fall back into that darkness. But I feel confident that the light I've let enter my life will remind me that life can be good and can be worth living for. In high school, I began working for the United Way of Broward County. Here I help coordinate and put on yearly events with over 160 high school and middle school attendees to receive mental health awareness presentations ad substance abuse prevention training. I get a chance to share my story and speak to these kids. I also am a 6th-grade girls' leader within my church, where mental health is a constant topic. My experience with mental health has had a profound impact on my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. It has taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and self-care. It has also inspired me to pursue a career in mental health advocacy, helping others who may be struggling with similar issues. One of the most significant ways in which my experience with mental health has influenced my beliefs is in the importance of destigmatizing mental illness. Growing up, I was often told to just "snap out of it" or "cheer up." It was as if my anxiety and depression were something to be ashamed of, something to be hidden away. But through my own experiences and education, I have come to understand that mental illness is a legitimate health concern, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This belief has also influenced my relationships, both with myself and with others. I have learned the importance of self-care, of taking the time to prioritize my own mental health needs. This has included seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, and developing healthy coping mechanisms. In my relationships with others, I have become more empathetic and understanding, recognizing that everyone has their own struggles and challenges. One personal story that stands out to me is a time when I was struggling with a particularly difficult bout of depression. I had isolated myself from my friends and family, feeling as if I didn't deserve their love or support. One day, a friend of mine came over unannounced, simply to check on me and spend time with me. That act of kindness meant the world to me, reminding me that I was not alone and that I was deserving of love and support. My experience with mental health has also influenced my career aspirations. As someone who has benefited greatly from therapy and mental health resources, I have become passionate about advocating for better access to these resources for all individuals. I am currently pursuing a degree in psychology, with the goal of eventually becoming a licensed therapist or counselor. One of the challenges I have faced in pursuing this career path is the stigma that still surrounds mental illness. Many people still view therapy as a last resort or a sign of weakness, rather than a legitimate form of healthcare. However, I am committed to breaking down these barriers and advocating for better access to mental health resources for all individuals. I have come to understand that mental illness is not just an individual concern, but is often shaped by systemic inequalities and injustices. For example, individuals from marginalized communities are often more likely to experience mental health struggles, due to factors such as racism, poverty, and discrimination. As a mental health advocate, I believe it is important to address these larger systemic issues in order to create a more equitable and just society. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has had a profound impact on my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. It has taught me the importance of destigmatizing mental illness, practicing self-care, and advocating for better access to mental health resources. While my journey has been challenging at times, it has also been a source of growth and learning. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the people who have supported me along the way. And while mental health can still be a difficult and sometimes taboo topic, I believe that by sharing our stories and advocating for change, we can create a more compassionate and supportive world for all individuals.