Depression. Anxiety. Paranoia.
These are things many people have felt at least once in their lives.
Yet no one really talks about it.
It’s easy to talk about physical pain, because it is obvious. When you break your arm, you tell someone.
Yet, no one wants to tell another person they are depressed, or anxious, because somehow, feeling this way, is embarrassing, or shameful.
Why?
I believe mental illness is something a lot of people misunderstand. It’s hard for people to grasp the concept of someone having no control over their mind. I wish there was more education about it.” said Jeanette Vuong, a second year student at Los positas.
“I believe there is a negative stigma around those with mental illness. A lot of people don’t go and seek help because they wish to avoid having that label depend on them. no one wants to be considered crazy or broken. There’s a possibility that being considered mentally ill will discredit the person completely.” Vuong said.
Students may not want to talk to people because Mental illnesses are mostly shed in a negative light.
Other people may not even know they have a mental illness because of the lack of awareness. People are not informing students enough on mental health.
By spreading awareness you are shedding light on the importance of mental health, and breaking the stigma.
Because the reality is people try to downplay it, by saying things such as “just don’t stress out,” or “you’re fine.” when in reality, they may not be fine.
“I believe media plays a huge part on how mental illness is depicted. Very often do we see those that are mentally ill in a negative light. They’re always the serial killers of the crazy homeless guy. It makes a lot of people think only “scary people” are mentally ill,” Vuong said.
It is easy to become anxious, especially at school. Students get piles of homework with grades they must maintain outside of their social life and maybe their work life.
“I started struggling with school related anxiety during my junior year of high school. I was so afraid to talk about my anxiety with my friends and family and it only got worse and started affecting other areas of my life by the time I got to college. I still struggle with it, but now I have a solid support system that sees me through those difficult times.” said Camille McDaniel, a second year student at Boston University.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Our mind is one of the keys not only to successful academics, but just for arguably, for a happier lifestyle.
Seeking help, is not something to be embarrassed about, it’s actually a very brave thing to do.
Depression and anxiety are nothing to be ashamed about. These are common things, however, many people don’t talk about it.
If you or someone you know is feeling this way, it is strongly encouraged to seek help, from maybe a friend. Teacher, or guidance counselor.