Self Love By Becca Lefkowitz

As I scroll through my peers blog posts, discussing their friends, family, relationships, and sports, I can't help but feel that one major topic is being neglected. Sure, all those things are extremely important to me, and I am exceptionally grateful that I am blessed to experience each one of those things, but one key component has failed to be mentioned. Mental Health.

Mental health is defined as "a person's condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well being." It affects how we think, feel, and act, as well as how we handle stress and make choices. As a society we lack mental health awareness and fail to acknowledge the struggle millions of people face each and every day. The constant questioning of one's worth, or the feeling of being overwhelmed with insecurity. Often times other people are the ones at fault for hurting you. However, you are the only person who can truly be held accountable for your feelings when you let those derogatory statements and actions get to you. 

Yes, I understand that it is difficult to silence the voices in your head, that are surging through your mind with hurtful words slowly tugging at your insecurities, forcing the wall you built up to promptly crumble to the ground. Then the thoughts are flooding through your body circulating your brain, not allowing you to think otherwise. I get it, it's tough to not allow it to get to you, but you can't, you are stronger than that.

People don't understand just how special and vital they are. Everyone was brought into this world for a reason; a purpose. I have struggled for years to recognize just how amazing life is and how exceptional I am. Although it may sound dumb, I look myself every day in the mirror and repeat the same thing. "I am beautiful. I am kind. I am strong. I am intelligent. I am brave. I am extraordinary." Days, weeks, months, passed until I believed myself. I finally acknowledged just how amazing I am, and I am so proud of myself for all that I have accomplished these past years.

I do believe that friends, family, and sports are important but I feel that mental health is equally as important if not more. Because the day you begin to love yourself for all your quirks, weirdness, and cringy moments, you will begin to realize just how incredible you are. Now that I am in a good place with myself, I strive to have a positive effect on others, and help those in similar situations that I was once faced with. Because gosh you are just so wonderful, even if you can't see it, you are PERFECT. 

Here are some of my favorite quotes :)

**Quote on mental health was found from a dictionary, no plagiarism was involved!!!