Over the last few decades, mental health has become increasingly recognized as a prominent issue faced by our communities. Mental health incorporates one’s cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being, the absence of which can cause internal trauma and stress. Those unable to cope with the stresses experienced from life often find a lack of productivity and motivation in their life, making it increasingly difficult to become contributing members of a community.

The implications of mental health within our campus must be considered as social stigmas often make it difficult for those suffering to come forward and seek help and support. The challenges within our community relate to increased awareness of mental health and the normalization of those who face such troubles and actively seek medical and therapeutic help. Mental health is much like any other illness and it should be treated as such. If one individual feels unsafe to do so, then the entire community is compromised, having failed its job to support and uplift those in need. We must work together to ensure our fellow students, classmates, and friends are empowered with the right knowledge and resources as well as a supportive community to come forward and actively face such illnesses.