There are many different factors in maintaining control of your mental health. One factor that is incredibly important in mental health is your identity. Identity can encapsulate a range of descriptors. Racial, sexual, ethnic and cultural identities all play important roles in our sense of self and in understanding the world around us. Additionally, our personal identities can affect our understanding of our own mental health.
Numerous scientific studies show that being connected to our personal identities can have a positive effect on our lives and sense of self. When you feel more connected to various parts of yourself, self-confidence and self-assurance can increase. The more confidence you have in yourself and your abilities, the better control you will have over your own mental health. When you believe in yourself, you are better able to cope with all the difficulties life can throw at you.
Additionally, being in touch with your own various identities can help improve connections with your peers. In an article published by Medical and Life Sciences News, finding similarities in your identities and interests between your peers can improve relationships with friends, coworkers and others can improve symptoms of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Identity connection can also slightly decrease stress levels, leading to further improved health outcomes. When we feel seen and connected to the people around us, our mental health can improve. A sense of belonging in yourself and the community around you can positively affect your life.
Many college students struggle to connect with others when they first move away from home. Especially as a freshman, making friends in a new environment can seem incredibly daunting and terrifying. Luckily, many colleges and universities (including UConn!) have numerous cultural centers and resources. Various centers devoted to celebrating different parts of people’s identities can not only provide you with fun activities to fill your free time but can also introduce you to other students who share similarities with you. Attending events at cultural centers, or even just sitting inside of the space can allow you to make connections with your peers and foster friendships that could potentially last a lifetime. If you are part of a specific cultural group, reach out to or stop by any of UConn’s cultural centers. Most of them can be found on the fourth floor of the Student Union.
Attending events and being involved with spaces related to your individual identity can allow you to branch out and create new connections. Additionally, being connected to specialty groups can improve your own sense of self, sense of community and self-confidence. When you are connected to others and yourself, you will experience more positive feelings towards yourself as well as the larger community around you, whether that be on or off campus. Having a strong connection to your own identity can improve your mental health, decreasing depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. The less isolated you are, the happier you will become. Reach out or stop by the cultural centers in the Student Union today!