WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY REFLECTIONS

World Mental Health Day took place a couple weeks ago, on Oct. 10, and I reflected on some moments this year that have been both positive and challenging.

Motivation for school and talking with peers has always helped me, as I’ve always been more of a shy person. The end of last year (my first at MHCC) was a little more challenging, as I missed seeing my friends, especially at The Advocate. I also feel for the high school seniors who didn’t get to spend as much time together at the end of their final year.

Since the pandemic began, it’s been interesting transitioning into online classes and a remote model. I definitely miss seeing peers and friends at school, as I think this is an important part of the learning process.

Since the spring shutdown, I’ve used a few techniques for my mental health. I enjoy working out and listening to music, and those two things help me a lot. I also really enjoy writing, and expressing emotions through written work makes me feel good, too.

Growing up, I didn’t feel that I had that much anxiety, but I think it reached its peak when I was in high school. It was harder to make friends at times, but I’m grateful for the friends I made along the way and the ones that will stay with me throughout my life.

I’ve found methods to cope with such anxiety, and talking with friends and keeping motivated with school and enjoying every moment has helped me a lot. I’ve also found hobbies that I enjoy, and in my free time I enjoy playing guitar and going for walks with my dog.

I feel like I’ve learned a lot in the past year since I’ve entered college about finding things to focus on, outside of school, at times (like The Advocate newspaper, which is super fun!) and this has motivated me both during, and beyond school.

I hope you can do the same and find similar methods and techniques to help if you’re feeling anxious or stressed, as well.

For MHCC Counseling resources, visit: https://www.mhcc.edu/Personal-Counseling/