December 2017
Aisha Carter:Â To Be Self-Aware
Not only am I a woman, but I’m also a black woman. This imbrication of my social identities has molded me into who I am today, while simultaneously hindering me so much along my journey. Certainly with only being 20 years old, this journey of mine has only just begun, but in my 20th year nothing has been more imperative to me than advocating for health and one’s overall well-being. As you may know, there are several facets to one’s overall well being, whether it be financial, spiritual, etc. However, I am at a stage in my life where maintaining mental and emotional health are my top priorities, knowing that these two areas could certainly make or break an individual.
As an African American, I was raised in a religious environment where I was primed to believe that every trial could be conquered by the power of prayer. And as a woman, I knew the need for strength was crucial. I remember watching my mother as she raised my sisters and me. Her strength, her sacrifice, her ability to find a solution to any problem that arose was incredible. Incredible, but vital nonetheless. Being raised in these conditions, I knew two things. The first thing I knew was that I had to be strong. I had to be strong for myself, and for whomever else around me that needed my strength. Second, if for some reason there were hardships that I could not overcome, I knew that I was to turn to God to guide me through. I would not say that my mind has changed about these ideas of strength and prayer; however, over time I have learned to step away from the stigmas and negative connotations surrounding being reliant and dependent on others.
Some would believe that as people get older, turning to others for assistance should instantly cease. I, on the other hand, find so much strength in taking advantage of resources and reaching out to people who were put into your life to ease your struggle. I learned this firsthand during my sophomore year of college at a time when I felt so overwhelmed, and was unsure if I could still hold myself up on my own. I was hesitant, but I attended my first counseling session at CAPS, and it was groundbreaking. All we did was have a conversation, but this one conversation helped me open up my mind and allowed all of these bottled up and suppressed thoughts to spew out, and I could finally make sense of it all. I’m not saying that counseling is the key to being mentally and emotionally well, but it provided me with some tools that I continue to carry with me today which aide in my stride towards my overall well-being.
As I continue to focus on improving my emotional and mental health, I keep two things in mind. First, self-awareness is crucial to my well-being. Try straying away from being in denial about how you really feel, and be honest with yourself. Realize your weaknesses, and where you are lacking. Know what you can handle, and be okay with things that are out of your reach. Be able to assess when you may need help. Second, if the time comes when you do need help, always reach out. Whether your hesitation stems from fear or doubt, take advantage of your resources and seek help. For more information on where you to find these resources, I have listed a couple below:
CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services)
Michigan Union Room 3100
(734) 764-8312 (24hrs)
Counselor on Duty at CAPS is available:
Monday-Thursday: 10am-6:00pm
Friday: 10am-4pm
SAPAC (Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness)
Michigan Union Room 1551
(734) 764-7771
Monday-Friday: 9-5pm
24-hour Crisis Line: (734) 936-3333