There’s a silent killer rampaging throughout the world right now. It creeps in, or lays dormant, until it starts making life unbearable and unbelievably difficult. That ‘killer’ is mental illness, and we are all the victims.

Despite the fact it is 2018 and we live in a modern, socially progressive world, there are still countless stigma surrounding mental illness and its treatments.

Mental illnesses are just that; an illness. Like some physical illnesses, it cannot always be detected by the naked eye. As opposed to being hidden behind clothes or skin, these illnesses are hidden behind fake smiles and restless nights, and these illnesses deserve to be treated just as physical ones are.

Nobody makes fun of someone or calls them weak for seeking help with a broken limb or a heart problem, so why wouldn’t mental illnesses be shown the same concern or respect?

With mental illnesses being as common as a cold, why do those who suffer still sometimes feel isolated and ashamed?

Getting out of bed while battling crippling depression can be as hard and painful as standing up on a broken leg, and both ailments deserve proper treatment.

Check in on your friends who open up to you about their struggle with mental illness, and those who don’t. Make yourself available to listen, and be there for them as you would a friend suffering a terrible bout of the flu.

Don’t get so involved in school and living the ‘best years of your life’ that you let your own mental health deteriorate. Be kind to yourself, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Every single person on this campus adds something unique to it; Eastern would not be the same without you.

Stay safe and remember that it is okay to not be happy and to not want to interact with people, but it is also okay to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.

Hold each other accountable for seeking help, making counseling appointments, taking medications on time and eating food on a regular basis.

Try not to feel afraid or ashamed or alone; chances are everyone on campus can relate to whatever you are going through.