The stigma of men’s mental health is one that remains rampant in today’s society. Men are chastised for not being strong or tough, essentially following the norms set for us by cultural gender norms. For a man to be depressed or anxious, they are seen as weak.

With Nov. 19 being International Men’s Day, it’s important for men around the country to understand that their mental health is worth it. This year, the focus of this year’s day was “making a difference for men and boys.”

Speaking for myself, I can’t think of a better way to make a different than proving to yourself you’re worth it and making yourself a priority. While it’s an uncomfortable topic to speak about, it’s important for men to know that just because they are men, it doesn’t mean their feelings are invalid.

For myself, mental health is a topic I rarely wanted to talk about in the past. I suffer from bipolar, depression and anxiety disorders and struggle with a lot of self doubt. In the past, I kept my feelings boxed up and wouldn’t disclose how I was feeling to even my closest friends.

As I’ve grown older, now 23-years-old, I made the active decision that it was time for me to make a change. There was no point for me to continue living my life miserably.

I have dealt with therapy and anti-depressants in the past, none of them worked for me. I thought that there was no point for me to try again but something in the back of my head pushed me to.

I stepped into Central Connecticut’s Student Wellness Center and set up weekly appointments for myself. Going to the Center has helped me understand myself more thus allowing me to become more comfortable with who I am. Although, I’ve only been going for a few weeks, I can begin to see that letting my feelings out was and still is worth it. Keeping everything boxed in doesn’t help anyone.

I’m not perfect and I likely never will be, however, seeking help for my mental problems has reminded me that I am valid and I am worth the time.

For men out there, it’s important to understand that being depressed and being anxious is not something to be ashamed of. We all battle something so it’s important to seek help and be an ally to others when you can.

Battling mental illnesses doesn’t make you any less of a man; seeking help for your illnesses shows you are strong and shows you’re willing to make a change.

There are multiple resources on campus that you can look for if you need guidance. Even if attending counseling and receiving assistance off-campus is needed, it is just a call away. No one should be afraid or ashamed of themselves for their mental illnesses.

You’re on this earth for a reason and you are valid in your thoughts and feelings.