Siena is Making Space for Mental Health

Recently, I have made the decision to really dedicate myself to being happy and healthy, both physically and mentally. Being alone with my thoughts during quarantine has helped me realize that my mental state is a priority and should be treated as such. I have committed to a more positive mindset, a more nutritious diet, picking up a new hobby, and surrounding myself with supportive and loving people.
Siena Bowen, Student at University of Oregon

Make Space for Mental Health with LifeSpace

Share your journey and why this is important to you

As I was growing up, I sidelined my mental health for the sake and comfort of others. I was not educated about mental health, so I made excuses for what I was feeling and explained away my problems, as if they were any less significant than someone else’s. As I entered college and left home for the first time, I was suddenly bombarded with new ideas and perspectives, and I came to recognize who I was as a young adult, both the positives and negatives. It hasn’t been easy, and there have been many lows, but with a supportive community around me I have worked on being a better person and striving for a more positive outlook on life.

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How would you like to inspire others?

Take a few minutes each day to just be with yourself, whether it be through yoga, meditation, a good breakfast, or listening to some good tunes. It’s okay to time for yourself, because you are important, and your mental health is important. It is okay to say ‘no’ to things that you don’t want to do. Stress is a very common burden for students, so if keeping organized helps ease that, I’d suggest writing things down in a planner/calendar or by making a list of to-dos.

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