Dr. Lauren Brumley
Photo provided by Dr. Brumley
If you’re reading this, the future does not have to be more of the past.
The first time I heard the term “mental health” was when I got to college. I went to a big, state university (UNC Chapel Hill) similar to WCU. There were so many new things I was exposed to, including the idea that my mental health mattered and was something I could get help with. During the Spring of my first year of college, I was experiencing a lot of stress, self-hatred, and turmoil around my identity and relationship, and my friend encouraged me to go to the counseling center on campus.
I went and did an intake the same day. I was nervous in the waiting room. As I described what I was going through to the psychologist, he was patient and understanding. I was assigned to a therapist who helped me learn about how stress impacts wellbeing, process my growing understanding of my queer identity, how to set boundaries and say “no”, and that I’m not responsible for other people’s emotions. That first therapy experience helped me get through a very difficult time in my life. Later in college, I saw the same therapist again and later was referred out to a therapist in the community. I’ve continued to see a therapist off and on over the years, which has become a big part of how I manage stress and show up as my best self in my personal and professional life.
Thinking about my 18-year-old self, drowning in stress, self-doubt, and not knowing things didn’t have to feel that way, I wish I could go back and give her a hug. At that time in my life, I never would have imagined I could grow up to become a clinical psychologist who gets to support undergrad and graduate students as part of my job every day. I even ended up marrying my friend who initially recommended I go to therapy that first time!
If you’re reading this, I promise the future has better things in store for you. Sometimes the most painful points in our journey stimulate the most personal growth. And, thankfully, there are lots of people ready to support you in making meaning from the struggle, moving forward, and finding peace and joy. If you’re reading this, you can come talk to me about your mental health and I’m happy to help support you in connecting with resources to help you heal, grow, and thrive.
With loving kindness,
Lauren Brumley, Assistant Professor
Department of Psychology, West Chester University
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