Overcoming my Mental Health Challenges and Becoming a Better Student by Harmony

Overcoming my Mental Health Challenges and Becoming a Better Student by Harmony - July 2023 Scholarship Essay

During my spring semester at Hampton University, I had to take a medical leave of absence from school. I felt incredibly defeated as a freshman with only one semester under my belt, having to go back home with a 1.8 GPA and a deflated ego. The five-hour car ride back to my hometown was filled with thoughts of what I could do to make my situation better and how I could make up for lost time.

However, during my reflection, I realized that I had been consumed by stress, depression, and overall hopelessness, which hindered my ability to dedicate myself to my studies during the previous semester. Instead of dwelling on how to avoid repeating the spring semester, I shifted my focus to creating a game-plan to prevent a repeat of the fall semester.

I knew that I needed to find ways to cope with my depression and darkness in order to succeed. I made the decision to start therapy and visit a psychiatrist as a means of healing. Through my treatment, I discovered that I had been struggling with a learning disability and was limiting myself with self-sabotaging behaviors.

In addition to seeking professional help, I also prioritized building a stronger support system. While at Hampton, I often felt alone and had no one to turn to. To combat this, I made a conscious effort to reach out and spend more time with family. Whether it was calling daily or going out with relatives when asked, I did all I could to strengthen my connections with the people in my life, so that I could feel like I had a system of people who cared about me as much as I cared about them.

This shift in my mindset and my efforts towards self-improvement proved instrumental in my healing journey. Now, I feel surrounded by the warmth of people who care about me, and I know that when I return to Hampton, I can rely on them to support me throughout my educational journey.

I believe that with the knowledge I have now and the people in my life, I am going to be able to continue my time at college with the resources and support I needed at the beginning of my Freshman year. I will make sure not to repeat the same mistakes that lead me to become consumed by my own thoughts and depression. I am excited about what the future holds for me and am ready to take on any challenges thrown my way.