Why do we take more pride in physical health rather than mental health? 
Despite the stigma surrounding mental health wellness, mental health is just as important as physical, and should be treated with equal respect and admiration in everyday life. Struggling with mental health is an extremely daunting thing to go through, and it is difficult to be physically healthy when your head isn’t in the right place. The importance of mental health goes above everything, because of how much it affects any simple task. Having more pride in taking care of yourself mentally and reaching out to get the help you need is the first step to an overall healthier lifestyle. 
Towards the end of 2020, I reached a breaking point mentally, just like many others had during the pandemic. The lack of human interaction and feeling like my life didn’t matter trickled down to me, feeling the most hopeless I had ever felt. At that point, I finally decided to make a change in my life due to the destructive mental path I was on. I ended up participating in an intensive outpatient program for depression from December 2020 to April 2021.  
At first, it felt embarrassing to have to be in something so extensive, with daily check ins and group therapy, and I felt weak compared to others around me who seemed like they were all happy, doing great, and didn’t “need” the amount of help I was receiving. Yet, by the end of April, I realized how strong I was for reaching out to my family and making the change to help myself.  
Depression, and any other mental health disorder, is hard to go through alone but many who suffer choose to do so anyways. Having the strength to put embarrassment and fear aside is something we should all have pride in. To many, the way I handled my depression may sound like a huge step outside of their comfort zone, but it turned out to be the most noble and powerful thing I had ever done for myself.  
Choosing yourself and taking care of your mind is so important. Having a clear and confident mind will in turn benefit every other aspect of your life. That is why more pride should be taken in improving your mental health than eating healthily or going to the gym. 
The newsletter you won’t leave unread.
Temple ’25
(but via email)
The newsletter you won’t leave unread.

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