Ghallia Hashem

If you're feeling uncertain about reaching out for support, it's important to remember that it's a normal reaction. Many of us fear judgment or not being understood when we're struggling, but please know that you're not alone in your feelings, and reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness. Understand that mental health professionals are trained to help with exactly what you're experiencing, and they're there to provide support and understanding—not judgment. Reaching out is a brave step towards healing and wellness. It can be helpful to start with someone you trust, but if you're not ready to share with someone close to you or if you don’t currently have someone you trust in your life, there are many helplines and online resources available. It's okay to take small steps and it's okay to need help. Remember, everyone deserves support, and that includes you. Please reach out, because there is help available and you don't have to face your struggles alone.  

Suicide prevention is an issue of profound significance to me. The University of Windsor is not just an educational institution—we are also a community; a home away from home for thousands of young people who are at a critical juncture of their lives. Many students encounter challenges and pressures that can, lead to distress and crisis. We recognize these challenges and understand that our duty is not just to promote academic success, but also to ensure the well-being and mental health of every student. Suicide prevention matters because every student matters. Every life is valuable and each person is capable of contributing to the world in their own unique way. It's a matter of saving lives, protecting potential, and maintaining the heart of our community. Focusing on suicide prevention means addressing mental health stigma, ensuring access to mental health care, promoting healthy coping skills, and fostering a culture of compassion and understanding. It signifies that we prioritize the well-being and mental health of individuals as much as their physical health, leading to a healthier, more empathetic society. By investing in suicide prevention, we can provide a lifeline to those who might otherwise feel hopeless by offering support, resources, and compassion when they need it most. This is more than just an institutional duty - it's a profound moral obligation. 

One of my favourite strategies for maintaining mental well-being is establishing healthy boundaries. By clearly defining what I'm comfortable with, I am able to safeguard my time, emotional energy, and well-being. This not only prevents burnout but also helps me build stronger, more respectful relationships with others. 

Additionally, creating a to-do list is an indispensable tool for me. The simple act of writing down tasks, and breaking them into manageable parts, gives me a sense of control over my responsibilities. It's a concrete way to tackle feelings of being overwhelmed and it always feels satisfying to tick tasks off the list. 

Finally, giving myself a pep talk has been instrumental in maintaining my self-confidence and motivation. Acknowledging my abilities, celebrating my strengths, and reminding myself of past successes helps me combat self-doubt. It's like being my own personal cheerleader, motivating myself to face any challenges that come my way. 

By practicing these strategies regularly, I've found that they support my overall mental well-being, giving me a sense of control, boosting my self-confidence, and promoting a balanced lifestyle. 

I find hope and inspiration in several ways during tough times. Foremost among them is the resilience and spirit of the students I serve. Their drive to learn, to grow, and to contribute positively to society, even when faced with challenges, is incredibly inspiring. I am also encouraged by the community we've built here at the University of Windsor. It's a place where collective strength is fostered, where we uplift each other during difficult times, and celebrate each other's achievements. 

Another source of hope for me is the transformative power of education. Even in the face of adversity, I know that the work we're doing here is shaping the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. 

Lastly, I draw strength from the belief that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning. As difficult as they might be, tough times can build resilience, deepen empathy, and provide new perspectives. Remembering this helps me to persevere through difficult times and inspires me to keep pushing forward.