In 2016, USA Today published "Mental health on college campuses: A look at the numbers". This article reported that one in every 12 U.S. college students makes a suicide plan, how suicide is the #2 leading cause of death in people ages 15-34, and that despite this, two-thirds of students who are struggling with mental illness do not seek treatment.
Young adults are struggling. It is not a secret that between juggling school, work, extra activities, and social lives, life begins to take it's toll, and mental sanity is often the victim. Fortunately, this trend has not gone unnoticed. On March 2nd, the Belmont Batemen team held a Day of Awareness on campus, to spread awareness for the #ItStartsWithYou campaign, to spread awareness about the campaign, and the importance of recognizing the signs of emotional suffering. It is campaigns and organizations like this that prove the importance of understanding and recognizing the signs of mental illness; In today's society, there is a tendency to dismiss mental illness as trivial, or something not worthy of legitimate treatment.
Although campaigns like these are incredibly beneficial and important, it is unfortunate that they are even necessary. Mental illness is something that should be taken seriously, and be given the proper attention that it deserves. If you were having heart complications, you would want to seek help. Why wouldn't you want to do the same with what's in your head? Obviously, as the previous statistics have proven, most people suffering from mental illness do not seek the treatment they need, and that is because the stigma that surrounds mental health.
How can we end this stigma? Unfortunately the answer to this question is not concrete, and is still a work in progress. The best thing we can do as individuals right now is to start the conversation. This can be done a number of ways. First, educate yourself. Find out the causes and effects of mental illness, who it affects, and what you can do to help yourself or others who suffer. Some helpful resources include the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health America, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Next, get involved. There are many organizations that you can align with to make a difference. Look into how you can make a difference, or even just offer your support for these organizations and those who are suffering. There are many incredible sources for help like The Trevor Project, To Write Love On Her Arms, and Bell Let's Talk.
Lastly, be aware. Understand that people go through different things in their lives and experience things differently. Be on the look out for those who may need a helping hand or a person to talk to, and be that person. The best way we can end the stigma that surrounds mental health is by being open, passionate, and accepting.