By Ainsleigh Mensah

What does mental health mean to you? For some, it is a very sensitive subject. Nonetheless, it is important to explore the aspects of mental health in balancing a busy lifestyle.

I remember the last year I played basketball at Douglas College. There were a series of major life-altering events that occurred in my life within a very short amount of time. This led to an offseason of debating about whether or not I could even balance being a student-athlete anymore. Had I reached a breaking point? Did I even want to continue with school? Why did I feel so upset all of the time?

It wouldn't be until two and a half years later that I was finally diagnosed with depression. It's not something I am proud of and not something I speak openly about very often. But if speaking about it can put a name to this disease and help another student and or student-athlete like me, then I'd be glad to talk about it.

I always thought that if I remained busy enough I wouldn't have time to be sad. Recognizing what's wrong (as cliché as it sounds) is a large part of finding out what you need. With all of the time I spent studying, going to and from practice, and working late nights, I had little time to think about how I was living. I didn't realize how toxic my life had become.

Shutting down family and friends became my way of dealing with issues and with any kind of relationship I formed. Aversion to most subjects became a daily routine to me and as soon as I could blink, everything came to a sudden halt. I attempted to make a return to play varsity basketball. However, the passion and fight I once had was gone and I was unsuccessful. I no longer felt like a confident athlete. It was evident to me that something bigger was lurking in the distance.

With all of this, I had a lot on my mind. So I decided to talk to a counsellor who then referred me to see a doctor. It was probably the most emotional thing a young person can do. Simply put, it seemed embarrassing. However, throughout the process I learned a variety of coping mechanisms. Some worked and others did not, but I always remained hopeful that I could find treatment or at least a professional who could help me. It was through this process that I learned a couple of things.

First off, I was not crazy. Being depressed does not make someone crazy. In fact, I was dealing with reality—my reality.

Secondly, dealing with depression and admitting you have a mental health issue does not make you weak. In fact, it is probably the bravest thing you could do for yourself and for others around you.

I also learned that sometimes depression means you don't 'feel' anything at all. Depression inhibits your ability to express emotions and/or feel them in a normal (whatever normal is for you) way.

Something else I learned is that time does not help depression unless you seek help. It doesn't just go away.

Another thing I figured out was that sometimes you feel guilty and that's okay. Sometimes what people around you may not understand is that you feel as though you are a nuisance to them. However, those who truly care about you are generally concerned and want to help. You just have to be willing to receive that in a positive way.

Something that came as a surprise to me was that a lot of people in my immediate circle were also dealing with mental health issues. It was not just me. I was not alone.

The last thing I found out was that depression changes your brain chemistry. It can alter everything from how you feel, think, act, and can even manifest physically.

With all of this knowledge, I slowly began to come out of my shell. I learned that there are a lot of people who support you no matter what you are dealing with. I thought before being diagnosed that I would never play basketball again. Little did I know, after 3 long years, I would return to the game that I missed so much, and at the exact same school.

I am so fortunate to have such amazing friends, family and teammates and I would not trade any of my experiences gained here at Douglas College, and with my Royals family for anything.

I'm beginning to see the world differently and deal with my issues head on. If you know someone dealing with a mental health issue, the best thing you can do, for anyone, is to educate yourself and others around you.

I am excited for my future, and my last two years of basketball at Douglas College. I hope that in time, other students, and athletes who find themselves in a similar situation will begin to discuss and formulate methods to help cope with these types of issues.