Conversations surrounding mental health are growing — particularly in our generation. Despite the growing awareness and acceptance, one thing that has not seemed to decrease is suicide rates.
2023 had the highest number of suicides recorded in American history, and from 2001 to 2021, the suicide rates have steadily increased over time.
One factor to be considered is the impact of social media and technology on our age demographic. It goes without saying social media has changed the way we perceive and interact with the world.
A large percentage of our age group is very impressionable to say the least. It is sad to say a platform that could offer so much positivity to others and exposure to such topics can also trivialize it. With so many memes and “relatable content,” mental health is often reduced to humor.
I am sure a lot of students, including myself, have fallen victim to joking about such suffering to cope — which is not always a bad thing. Not all humor is light-hearted, and it can also enable the normalization of the issue.
Moreover, these platforms are the same platforms that romanticize and joke about the idea of mental struggle online. Certain communities create false narratives that mental illness is attractive, desirable or “even poetic.” This undermines the seriousness of the problems people are facing and can lead to misunderstanding it as part of their identity, making it more difficult for our generation to seek help or realize what they really need.
In addition to social media, there is more pressure to succeed academically, socially and professionally than ever. Expectations weigh heavy from family, friends and, honestly, society as a whole.
When things like this are brought up by college students, they are often dismissed as “growing pains” and normal aspects of becoming an adult or pursuing success. Although this may be partially true, it does not make the weight any lighter.
As far as access goes, the services in place to help individuals who are struggling are still underfunded and unavailable to many, especially the younger generation, despite an increased focus on mental health awareness.
Here on campus, students are offered a good selection of resources to address mental wellness. The William Magee Center in particular is dedicated to offering students treatment and avenues to improve their mental health, offering services that address substance abuse education and assistance, eating disorders and mental health disparities for college students.
Awareness alone is not enough, however. How do we get more students to utilize the resources available? It requires action and systemic changes, and it can start within your community.
If you or anyone you know needs some support, reach out and do not stay silent. There is someone who cares whether it be a student or a counselor.
It is on us as a student body to further the conversation and messaging surrounding mental health. Events like the Fresh Check Day, hosted by the Office of Student Affairs in the Grove last week, are designed to not only increase awareness and visibility but to remind students that it is okay to take a step back for their own good.
Editor’s note: If you, or someone you know, are experiencing mental health challenges, the university offers services at the Counseling Center. They can be reached at (662) 915-3784 or counslg@olemiss.edu.
Chequoia Adderley is a senior IMC Major from Pascagoula, Miss.
