Over the course of the past year, I have heard many people mourn the state of their mental health. On top of an already stressful time, remote learning seems to have had a negative effect on many. However, as I sit down for my 8th hour of the day spent listening to Mitski and playing Hypixel, I wonder: is poor mental health actually a problem? Is mental health even a real thing?

When posed with this question, some were dismissive. “Ya,” said one anonymous player, without elaborating. “Obviouslt,” said another named Unraql (MVP+ ‘21). However, it is not as obvious as it may seem. While scientists have suggested that early wake up times and having to stare at a screen all day may have a negative effect on the mental health of teenagers, scientists are also known to say all sorts of things, and who knows if any of it is even true. Additionally, if mental health is “real,” then why aren’t students allowed to take mental health days? As you begin to think critically and look into the details, it becomes more and more clear that mental health may not exist whatsoever. “I don’t need to see a therapist. I just need to see my grandkids,” said Gail C (Facebook ‘20). This testimony not only proves that mental illness does not exist, but also provides deeper wisdom about how all of us can better live our lives. 

If we as students are ever feeling a little down in the dumps, we can simply go visit our grandkids and know that everything will be okay. I hope to do so myself in the near future. However, until then, you can find me on Hypixel Bedwars at all hours of the day and night, likely blasting Bury Me at Makeout Creek and crying aggressively into my gaming headset.