Virginia Miller, LPC

If you're reading this, it's not enough to just look okay – you deserve to feel okay too!

Your journey through college isn't solely about grades, deadlines, and achievements. It's about discovering your resilience, embracing your vulnerabilities, and learning that it's perfectly okay not to have everything figured out.

I want you to know that you're not just a college student; you hold tremendous worth and value. Having been in your shoes, navigating the excitement and challenges of college, I understand how crucial it is to address something we often brush aside: mental health. In fact, it's so important that I've dedicated my entire professional life to working as a counselor with college students just like you!

Mental health challenges can impact anyone, often in ways that are invisible to others. The weight of carrying those heavy emotions can feel isolating and even crushing at times. College life can sometimes feel like riding a roller coaster blindfolded, but you're not alone on this ride!

Here's the thing: it's not a sign of weakness to reach out for support or take a step back when you need it. Instead, it's a testament to your courage and self-awareness. Therapy is a small but precious window of time dedicated to YOU – a space where you can learn to respect and protect your needs and sense of self.

I acknowledge that there may be moments when stress seems insurmountable, and self-doubt takes hold. However, I want to remind you of the warmth of friends who listen, the comfort of a family member or professor who understands, and the support system that can guide you back to a place of balance when needed.

Together, let's challenge the stigma surrounding mental health. It's not something to hide or be ashamed of; it's a part of our human experience.

Here are some reminders along the way:

1. Personal Time: Dedicate moments to yourself, engaging in activities that bring you joy. Whether it's painting, taking walks, or just sipping your favorite tea, cherish those moments and try to be present.

2. Share Your Heart: Talk to your friends and family, open up about your thoughts and feelings. You'll be surprised at how understanding and supportive some people can be. If the weight of college life ever feels unbearable, don't hesitate to connect with local mental health resources. They are here to provide the guidance you need and are just a phone call away.

3. Embrace Imperfection: Remember that you're human, not a machine. It's okay to make mistakes and learn from them. Perfection isn't the goal; growth is.

4. Be a Beacon: Be the friend who listens, supports, and uplifts others. You never know when someone might need your kindness and understanding.

If you find yourself navigating the stormy seas of college life, remember that hope exists. It might be hard to see right now, but trust me, it's there. Reach out, speak up, and let the world know you. You are not alone. You’ve got a whole support network rooting for you, and I'm right here, cheering you on with all my heart.

With warmth, understanding, and a virtual hug,

Virginia Miller, LPC

Clemson University ‘11 M.Ed in CMHC

Connect With Us

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.

AUTHOR CONTACT

This author has opted to allow readers who resonate with their story to contact them. If you would like to speak to the author of this letter about their experience, please use the form below.