Abigail, an English literature major at the State University of Jakarta in Indonesia, sheds light on the often underestimated challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college. In her personal account, she highlights the diversity and uniqueness of individuals in the new university environment.
Navigating through the demands of grades, interpersonal relationships, professors, and overwhelming assignments, Abigail initially coped by finding solace in the little joys of life — spending time with family and friends, engaging in hobbies, and doing things she loved. However, the cumulative pressure eventually became too much to bear.
In a world quick to judge, Abigail acknowledges the reluctance to reveal signs of vulnerability for fear of judgment. Mental health issues, often hidden due to their invisible nature, can have severe consequences. Abigail expresses the opinion that psychological challenges are more perilous than physical ones, citing the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which links untreated mental health conditions to disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, inappropriate incarceration, suicide, and a diminished quality of life.
Abigail emphasizes the lack of tangible solutions for internal struggles, contrasting mental health issues with physical ailments that often have more visible remedies. She draws attention to the unfortunate instances where bright lives are lost to the internal battles people face.
The prevalence of mental health problems in the United States is highlighted, with 72 out of 148 reported mass shootings since 1982 involving individuals with mental health issues. Abigail stresses that not everyone facing mental health challenges resorts to extreme measures but underscores the importance of acknowledging and treating these issues.
Turning her focus to teenagers, Abigail notes that anxiety disorders frequently lead to depression, self-harm, and attempted suicide. The sources of anxiety often stem from environmental factors, peer pressure, high parental expectations, and negative thought patterns. Abigail advocates for counseling sessions as a typical solution, offering a supportive environment for affected individuals.
Reflecting on her personal experience, Abigail expresses gratitude for having a friend who provided a listening ear during challenging times. She emphasizes the significance of human connection and kindness, emphasizing that acts of kindness measure our humanity. Abigail encourages supporting each other, especially during tough times, as it can be crucial for mental well-being.
In her closing remarks, Abigail dispels the stigma around mental health, asserting that admitting to it is not a sign of weakness but rather a display of strength to confront and address personal issues. She calls for collective efforts to prioritize mental health and urges everyone to be there for each other, fostering a supportive community to decrease the suicide rate among college students.