This is not the easiest post to make, but normalizing discussions about mental health is so unbelievably important, so I’m going to talk about my experience. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and those of you who know me well know that I’ve struggled with generalized anxiety and panic attacks for as long as I can remember. However, this year was a particularly tough year. Last October I was diagnosed with clinical depression and made the tough decision to start going to therapy weekly. It has not been an easy journey by any means, but through the ups and downs, my friends have always been there for me and I am so unbelievably thankful for you all. I could not have gotten through the last six months without the all the love from my amazing support system, both at school and at home. My mental health has been improved over time, as I begin to understand it better, but it’s not a linear process, and it’s something that I’m going to struggle with my whole life. Please remember to check up on your loved ones and check your own mental health, not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but throughout the whole year. If you feel you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out; finally going to therapy is the best decision I’ve ever made. Though it’s tough, I’m learning to live with my mental illnesses. Treat yourself with kindness. Let’s break the stigma!