Change the Stigma of Mental Health
By Anne Standfest
Trust me, I know what you are thinking. Its abnormal to suffer from mental health, and that’s definitely not you. Well, the talk about mental health on college campuses definitely does not help anyone’s acceptance to opening up to this. People are scared being seen going into the counseling center because they do not want to be considered “needing help”. In a world where mental health is becoming much more common, this is not healthy for students to feel ashamed of the way they feel, restricting them from getting help. It was found that there is a direct correlation between the stigma of mental health around campuses and students not seeking help. So, I am here to brainstorm on some ideas on how to change the stigma of mental health around Villanova’s campus.
In order to stop judging the idea of mental health, you must truly understand it. Understandably, for people that do not suffer from it, it is hard to wrap your head around the impact it can have on people. However, every person you pass on campus has their own story with mental health whether they struggled personally or not. Try to be open to the concept that you don’t know the story of everyone walking through the Oreo or sitting in the Exchange. Instead of judging people who walk into the counseling center or feeling bad for people who need to cry; smile at them, support them, give them a confidence boost. Actions as simple as these can change the way people view mental health on campus.
Another way that can open up the idea of mental health around campus is talking about it! I know everyone may not be as open to sharing their story, however, becoming comfortable opening up can encourage others to also do so. Allowing there to be a supportive conversation about mental health around campus can completely change one’s original thoughts about it. Who knows, your story could be the one that changes the mind of someone who previously looked down on mental health. Healthy conversation around mental health can not only encourage others to accept it, but it allows for Villanova to be a more inclusive place, which at the end of the day is what it stands for.
Overall, the stigma of mental health around college campuses has a negative connotation which is an unhealthy environment for college students. At Villanova, we pride ourselves through SPO and NOVAdance to be inclusive to everyone, regardless of their different abilities. In the world of mental health most people feel ashamed at Villanova, myself included. However, together as a student body it is critical to support each other no matter our differences. This will allow for Villanova to become “home” for much more students. So next time you see someone struggling, don’t judge and just walk past, rather be a part of the Villanova community that we are and give them support, a shoulder to lean on – you could be the one to change their entire day. You can never go wrong giving laughter, support, and love to the Villanova community we call our family.
