A better tomorrow by Campbell

A better tomorrow by Campbell - January 2023 Scholarship Essay

One in five Americans suffer from a mental health illness and that number is only expected to rise. As the expectations for teenagers become unrealistic and unreachable, more and more teens struggle with mental health. I think a mental health awareness course should be a required class for both middle and high school students. Mental illnesses attack aggressively but with the right knowledge and comfortability humans will be able to know how to react.
The course would highlight the three separate criteria of awareness, prevention, and recovery. Awareness would educate students on the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders, allow them to begin feeling comfortable with the topic of mental health, and empower students already struggling to feel as if they are not alone. Prevention would highlight the importance of stress management, a positive atmosphere, and how to cope when life seems overwhelming. Lastly, the recovery section would emphasize the support system at school to the students, the importance of seeking help, and the fact that there is a chance for a better tomorrow.
Mental health illnesses should not be something people are ashamed of. This class would empower the younger generation to feel comfortable enough to speak up for themselves and advocate for those around them who feel too weak. Becoming aware of the problem is the first step to making a change and this class will make a difference in lives all around the globe. The class would be a safe place for those struggling and a learning environment for those who are not, as they learn compassion for the ones facing adversity. Being able to look back on the lessons this class taught will inspire life change and could save countless lives.