Overall, mental health can be a lot. It is a lot to process, it is a lot to keep track of and learn about, and it is a lot to experience. But it is important to remember that there are ways in which we can support and lift each other up through our struggles. It is crucial to build a community in which everyone feels valued, welcomed and safe to acknowledge our struggles.

With that being said, living in our society can make staying mentally healthy difficult for several reasons. Social media’s negative effects on our mental health are constantly rearing their heads, the academic system has a long way to go to effectively support students’ mental well-being and access to mental health treatment for those struggling is far too difficult and takes much too long.

With all of this being said, the most important takeaway is that we do not have to be satisfied with these issues. There are ways to improve the way that we see and manage mental health, and there are ways to get better. We can spread awareness of the stigmas surrounding mental illness and we can be there for those we love, including ourselves.

The only way that the people who love us can even ask how to help is if they know the state of our mental health. Being anxious or worried about seeking treatment is a common feeling of those struggling with their mental health. Treatment can be scary, the stigma surrounding it makes it scarier, and being alienated for needing it is a common situation in those seeking help. This should not stop people in need from being able to ask for help. We, as a society, are obligated to do a better job of letting those around us know that they are loved and accepted, no matter what their struggles are. We need to tell our loved ones just how much they mean to us, and we need to remind ourselves that we are also deserving of that love.

Struggling with your mental health does not define you, and the only person that you need to get better for is yourself. It can feel as though life cannot stop to allow you the time that you need to get better, but it can. It does not matter what others your age are doing. It does not matter if social media tells you that you’re getting behind, or that your academic excellence matters more than your wellbeing. You are allowed to take as much time as you need, you are allowed to make mistakes, and you do not have to be an inspiration to others for doing any of this. You only have to love and be loved. You only have to remember that one day, you will feel okay again.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, here are some resources that you can turn to. From https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs/resources/mental-health-substance-use-disorder/mental-health.html

• PA Support & Referral Helpline: 1-855-284-2494 (TTY: 724-631-5600)
• Crisis Text Line: Text PA to 741741
• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
• The Trevor Project Lifeline (LGBTQ): 1-866-488-7386
  Text “Start” to 678-678
  Online chat function
• Trans Helpline: 877-565-8860