Samia Shahnawaz's story:

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​Mental health has bee na continuous advocator, coach, and love in my life. I find that the ability of the mind is limitless if you believe in yourself. I handle depression and anxiety in my life in waves- some easier than others. Through these battles with myself, I have found my internal strength is infinite as long as I believe in myself. This is a feeling and idealism I wish to pass to others in taking care of their mental health. On top of that, my sister, with Down's Syndromes, teaches me every day what unconditional love is and patience. Many people do not realize that taking care of yourself mentally is directly correlated to how you take of yourself physically- there is good times, bad times, and realistic goals that can be achieved. If you strive for your ideal body, why not your ideal mind too? I encourage those in my life, close or acquainted, to go to counseling and practice methods of opening up to themselves and others through talking, writing, arts, and passion in their daily lives. There comes a reward of weightlessness and HAPPINESS in these efforts. The best things in life take the most work - and that includes happiness. I strive to work toward a better me every day so that one day I can help others do the same.