Earlier this month, rapper and songwriter Kid Cudi checked himself into rehab for depression. He wrote a very personal letter to his fans via Facebook, where he discussed his long-time battle with severe depression and anxiety.
Not only did Kid Cudi’s brave letter let us know what he was struggling with, but it opened the door for an important conversation about mental health, which is often stigmatized or ignored. Thousands of young adults, including many college students, suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental illnesses. These illnesses make it harder than usual for students to deal with stress, stay motivated, make friends, or even get out of bed in the morning.
It’s important to remember that no matter who you are, or what you’re going through, you’re never alone! There’s always someone out there who’s having similar problems. Nobody is immune to mental illness, not even rappers, singers, or athletes. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, college is one of the best environments to take control of your mental health. Almost all colleges have counseling centers on campus, where students can get free counseling from licensed professionals. If you’re experiencing a major crisis or just having a rough week, the counseling center is there to help you. You can call the VSU Counseling Center at 229-333-5940 to schedule an appointment. If you need immediate help in distress, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. All calls are free and completely confidential. You can also find helpful information on mental illness at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website. They publish self-help and support articles, written by doctors and people who’ve experienced mental illness first-hand. If you aren’t experiencing mental illness yourself, but know someone who is, try your best to be there for them! Small things, like a “how are you?” text, a cup of tea, or just listening to them, can make a huge difference. Let them know that you’re always available if they need you.
College is about figuring out who you are and what makes you happy. Don’t be afraid to take a step back from everyone, and spend some quality time with you. Find a new stress relieving activity (drawing and watching movies are my personal favorites), take a walk outside, eat some ice cream, find a dog to play with, or listen to your favorite song. Always remember, you aren’t defined by your illness, and things will get better, even when it seems like they won’t. If you feel like life isn’t giving you any reasons to be happy, try creating your own. You got this!
HCXO!