This is a response to the article, "To Anyone Who Struggles With Their Mental Health Admist a New Career."

I needed to hear this (the author's article) as someone who struggles with her mental health sometimes. Life definitely gets crazy and we are so integrated into our busy lives, we forgot to breathe. Well, I forgot to breathe. Sometimes, I can consider myself as a workaholic and also sometimes, I feel lonely. Being an adult in the real world is hard.

I'm currently in my mid 20s, approaching 26 this year. With my busy work schedule, it's hard to make room to be with friends, especially since I still live with my family in Southern Maryland to save money and most of my friends don't live in the area except for three. Sadly, I don't see them that much either. As I get older, it's harder to maintain my friendships and making new friends. I've met new people through organizations and pageants I've joined. Even though I'm very grateful to meet everyone post grad, I still feel lonely. Looking back, I think it's because I'm always at home working. It's tough to get use to since almost four years ago, I was a social butterfly.

In order for me to prioritize my mental health, I had to take breaks during work. Or else I would go insane. I like to watch funny Tik Toks or make myself a Blueberry Chocolate Protein Smoothie (my favorite). And after work almost everyday, I workout to stay in shape and feel better about myself. I do a variety of workouts ranging from strength training, cardio, dance, and even walking. Besides all of that, of course I've been volunteering and writing to keep me occupy. And I also been training for my national pageant. I glad I have these things to keep my mind off of things. Also, I've been talking to my younger sister more, even though she's away for college for the time being. Our sisterly bond grew as we got older and can literally tell each other anything. And I also spent more time with my parents and my grandma. They are all getting older and I know it's better to spend more time with them while I still can before I can move out.

As the weather gets warmer, I had to make a note to myself that I need to get out of the house more since it's not healthy to stay inside all day. I needed to take a breather and enjoy the simple things in life more.

Out of all of the choices given to me in life, my mental health comes first. I have to put myself first before anyone or anything. I matter to me. My advice to anyone who's reading this, when you are in the real world post grad, always put yourself first. Choose yourself first because your physical, and most importantly, your mental health matters.