Morgan D.
If you're reading this, someone always wants to hear your story.
From a young age, I was challenged with the expectation of self-sufficiency and responsibility. At twelve, I heard the devastating words, "Your mother has been diagnosed with a terminal brain disease." This news shattered my world as an only child in a close-knit family. I became overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and loneliness. Due to the circumstances and emotions I was feeling, my dad encouraged the idea of talking to a mental health professional soon after that news, but I firmly denied it. On the outside, most would've never known what was going on in my home, but internally, it ate me up inside. After a long journey, I realized I could not do it alone and needed help.
For me, the opportunity to benefit from therapy started from my mindset of desiring to learn, change, and grow. I soon recognized that therapy was an opportunity to discover healthy ways to manage stress and cope with my grief. My struggles taught me the valuable lesson of humility—how important it is to let others in and acknowledge that there are people who genuinely want to support you during difficult times.
Admitting that you need someone to help with your struggles takes work. Fortunately, there are people in the world who are skilled, knowledgeable and called to help people walk through life's challenges. My life was changed when I made that decision, and it sparked my passion to pursue this career path. I want to make an impactful difference in others' lives, just as many individuals have done for me.
My Clemson community has opened my eyes to the importance of surrounding yourself with people who support, encourage, and uplift you in times of trial. As I close this chapter of my life, I can remember the people in my circle as people who listen. Whether that is to a victorious celebration or a difficult hardship I may be enduring, they walk through each season and emotion of life alongside me.
As president of IfYoureReadingThis Clemson, I have been blessed to see firsthand the impact of individuals sharing their stories. Throughout my involvement with this organization, I am continuously reminded of our University's uniqueness as a place of strength, resilience, and proper care for the Clemson Family. I wanted to express my deepest gratitude for every letter writer who has offered to share their story authentically and for writers who will throughout the future of our platform!
While there are still bad days, there are many more good days because I decided to share my story with others. Whether it's a professional, a family member, a trusted friend, or even a stranger who resonates with you, someone always wants to hear your story.
Morgan D., Clemson University
IfYoureReadingThis Clemson Chapter President 2024
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To follow IfYoureReadingThis at Clemson on Instagram, get in touch with our chapter, and learn about more resources available to Clemson students, visit our chapter’s homepage.
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