How To: Break the Stigma

It’s a Constant Grind to Be the Best

By Cece Diaz, Social Media Editor

*The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of iPulse.

College students, including student-athletes, are often prone to mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and more. It is time to break the stigma that comes with mental disorders.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines mental health as our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and act, and it determines how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices.

Today, in every town, on every city block, in every family across America, someone is hurting. Too many people are struggling to navigate an under-resourced, fragile system for the lifesaving support they need. Lynn University is no different.

I have made many social sacrifices throughout the years based on a vigorous swim team schedule, but I did it because I fell in love with the sport. Being a D2 collegiate athlete has its highs and lows. Advocating for my mental health illnesses has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I have been diagnosed with attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and depression, and I have had suicidal thoughts.

I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Yes, it can be cliché, but it’s the truth. Trust me; I’ve been there. Addressing these issues is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength. Remember that you are human, and we are all flawed in one way or another, and that is OK.

I spoke with some Lynn University students to find out how they promote their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.

“I think it’s different for a man because we are taught to just take things ‘like a man’,” said Anthony Muttillo, a professional golfer. “But I think the most important thing would be to not focus so much on the future. Compare yourself to yourself yesterday rather than comparing yourself to others, make time to go out and have a little fun with friends and take things one day at a time.”

“By doing something every day that makes me happy. Like going for a walk or doing a workout on my own, being a photographer for the athletes,” said Crystal Ayn, a graduate student. “Finding other things than school and soccer to give myself a break.”

Whether you are a student-athlete, full-time student or student worker, it is OK to be sad, cry, yell, be angry and be happy. Our emotions are our most beautiful selves. I am telling you that you will be alright, and that it will be OK even if the world may seem dark and there is no hope. But something I’ve learned from all my experiences is that talking about it is one approach to healing, and there is always another person going through similar encounters.

“I navigate my mental health by first off seeing what is wrong, seeing what my schedule will allow me to do satisfy my mind and see what my support system looks like,” said Kayla Gonzalez, a freshman. “It’s a difficult task, but I tend to try and battle things on my own, and if I need help, I ask. My mental health state can sometimes be overwhelming, so at times, I need to be by myself in a quiet room or just watch YouTube or sing to relieve stress.”

If you feel like you would like to talk to someone, go for it! Lynn University’s Counseling Services [JC1] team is committed to providing all currently enrolled students with comprehensive services to help deal with emotional, psychological, behavioral and social issues. Their services are designed to promote positive mental health and facilitate student success and psychological wellbeing.

To all my readers, know that you are not invisible. I am here to listen. I see you. I love you.

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