"You Are Not Alone" by State Reporter Megan Chiasson
December Blog
80,000
525,600
8,000,000
These numbers represent aspects of our lives, figures that define the world as we know it. We meet 80,000 people in our lifetime. There are 525,600 minutes in a year. 8,000,000, or 1 in 6, youth aged 6 to 17 suffer with mental illness in daily life, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Without a doubt, 2020 has not helped in lowering this number. The CDC recently conducted a study that found that almost half of the American adults have experienced deteriorating mental health as a result of the ongoing pandemic, increased natural disasters, and the presidential election. With such a life-changing year, how do we keep in touch with our mental health? How do we keep our sanity and stay in touch with normality? It may be difficult to search for the answers of these questions, but we all must remember: we are not alone.
Louisiana FFA, you are not alone. Through the depression, the anxieties, and the darkest times, you are not alone. This organization not only stands for the advocacy of agriculture but for advocacy of each other. Our connection through this great organization brings us a web of support and understanding. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from professionals. Trust me, it can be scary, but sometimes that one push can help for a lifetime.
Lastly, I want to remind everyone to take a deep breath and relax as we move into the wonderful holiday season. Enjoy time away from the stress of school with your friends and family. Make time for yourself and do your favorite things, whether it be reading, binging television shows, or baking your favorite Christmas cookies. Take some time to truly listen to yourself and your mental health. I’m here, your fellow FFA members, officers, and teachers, and your friends and family are all here for you.
Soon, we will be out of 2020, and the clock will reset to 525,600 minutes. Until then, always remember: you are not alone.
Happy Holidays,
Megan Chiasson
State Reporter
