By Brynli Felps
As I stand before you today, I am proud to share with you “Build a better you with Brynli.” My community service initiative is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, healthy coping mechanisms, and self- care. Mental Health is deeply personal to me as I have experienced firsthand the devastating effects of bullying and mental health struggles.
Throughout middle school and half of highschool, I endured relentless bullying that pushed me to the brink of despair. In a desperate attempt to escape the pain, I attempted to take my own life. But by the grace of God, I was given a second chance. It was in that darkest moment of my life, that I found solace in my faith and was saved by the love of Jesus.
This transformative experience ignited a passion within me to help others who also are struggling. I realized that I was not alone in my pain, and that many others in my community were suffering in silence. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas had a 12.9% suicide rate, with suicide being the 2nd leading cause of death among Texans aged 15-34 in 2022.
The statistics underscore the urgent need for mental health support and resources in our community. Through “Build a better you,” I aim to provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories, learn healthy coping mechanisms, and practice self care. By empowering others with the tools and support they need, I hope to prevent others from walking the same painful path I did.
As I reflect on my past terrifying situations, I am reminded that my greatest accomplishment is not my academic or extracurricular activities, but rather my survival. And now, I can help others through my experiences become survivors as well. I am determined to not only change the world, but to save the ones struggling to live. Day by day, with or without a title, I will change the world, and I will leave an everlasting legacy.
--------------
Brynli Felps is the current Miss Plano's Teen. You can find her on her title's Instagram.
This is her first guest blog for Section 36 Forevers.
No comments:
Post a Comment