Too often when we enter college we over look the importance of our mental health. The stress of classes, being away from home, and finding our place in our new environment can often times become overwhelming, and it can even overtake our lives. Stress is something that I myself have found can overtake ones life, mind, and body. Luckily there have been strides in our community in order to help students maintain and practice better mental health, but many individuals still fail to take the time and make sure their mind is in a s good shape as their body. The constant stress often causes anxiety, depression, and further advances other mental health issues many students come into college with. During one of the most changing and stress filled time of our lives, it is important to take a step back and take the time to take care of ourselves.

Many, like myself, often find it hard to reach out to others when they are struggling with mental health. Having mental health issues does not make you weak, it makes you human. Having a strong support system can make the biggest difference when it comes to dealing with stress and anxiety. Finding an amazing group of people that I could go to made my year significantly easier. Instead of baring all of my stress and anxiety by myself, I found people that I trusted and knew I could go to. Having someone to just listen can make the biggest difference. Whether it's going to CAPs or sitting on a bed watching Netflix with your best friend, having at least one person there to listen can make the stress of life a lot easier to handle.

Mental health is not just about having others to go to, but also other things. Having something that is completely detached from the stress and anxiety of school allows you to take your mind away from it all from a little bit. There are tons of ways to get involved on campus, and there is just about anything that will fit your passion. For just a couple hours a week, spend time doing something you love. It will make the biggest difference and you will find a great group of people who share the same passions as you. Take it from someone who started late--get involved and follow the things you love. Promoting your own happiness is a great way to keep it.

Taking just a little time for yourself and spending time with the people you love are a great way to help maintain good mental health. No matter what it is, whether it's going to a counselor, spending time with friends, or just taking a nap, please remember how important your mental health is. Often times in college many of us would rather pull an all nighter than take an hour break for ourselves. Mental health, though often overlooked, is key to making college a wonderful experience. It's OK to take a little time for yourself. It's OK to destress. And most importantly know that it's OK to not be OK.