Emma Wilson

Raising awareness for struggling LGBTQIA+ youth.

I had been dealing with panic attacks since elementary school before I even knew what they were and then one of my closest friends became depressed and suicidal and shut everyone out for almost a year. We nearly lost him at age 14. Over time he opened up again when he started going to therapy and taking anti-depressants. That also put a strain on my mental health causing more frequent panic attacks and more frequent days where I wouldn’t really talk to others at all. Over time another close friend helped me through figuring out labels and dealing with my anxiety and depression. 

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Trying to figure out labels that fit you while dealing with different forms of homophobia will affect your mental state. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It’s important for you to recognize when you need to take a break and do something that you enjoy. Sometimes that’s all it takes to make you feel better, and other times you need to talk to someone you trust. It may be a parent, guardian, therapist, teacher, friend, family member, or even an online friend.