Think back to kindergarten. No, I'm not talking about the sand/water tables, nor am I talking about the snack and story time. Reflect back on who was in your class. Perhaps you may still associate with them or vaguely remember the individuals that you forgotten the names of, or of course that one kid who didn't know the etiquette of blowing a snotty nose. Let's just say, there was about 20 little kiddos including yourself. Little did you know 4 of your classmates will be diagnosed with a mental disorder. Another 4 will be a victim of sexual assault. Some of your peers will be undiagnosed. Statistically, it is possible that one may even commit suicide.

As children, we don't think much further than recess. At that time we were all invincible. As adults, we may feel like we don't have time to be affected by sickness. Got a cold? Nothing some Nyquil and soup won't fix. Got depression? You're silly- I don't have time to acknowledge that something feels wrong with me.

Have you ever continued on with your day "faking it until you make it?" You smile and laugh with peers, but on the inside, there is an ominous cloud blocking rational emotions. You're drowning in your own thoughts, and feel suffocated with every breath you take.

The stigma of mental illness scares us into thinking there is something terribly wrong. It feels so embarrassing to tell someone that maybe "I don't feel okay." As humans, psychologically speaking, we like to go with the crowd because being an outsider usually leads to neglect and being alone is frightening. No one wants to feel like they are burdening or stressing out their loved ones. That fear you have of speaking out is the influence of the stigma that has imprinted in our nation.

Even though the stigma does exist, there are ways to put an end to the fearfulness of admitting being "mentally ill." We must speak out. Tell our own personal struggles, to help others who may be feeling the same way to know that they are not alone. There needs to be heavy emphasis on the resources available whether in be a therapist, or even a friend. You are NOT alone. Together we can unify to know that it is in fact, okay to not be okay. Mental illness is prevalent but the stigma must be beaten for humans to have the ability to reach optimal happiness. After all, we are together in this wild human experience. We must embrace it while not forgetting to embrace others in times of hardships.

Note: If you or anyone you know is feeling depressed, lost or suicidal please reach out to someone. It will get better.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline : Call 1-800-273-8255