Dear Editor,

The start of a new school year brings lots of exciting and new adventures to campus. New students arriving, upper class-men returning from their summer breaks, sororities and fraternities gaining new brothers and sisters.

What some may not realize is that it also brings anxiety and panic to some. Trust me when I tell you, neither of those two things are anything anyone wants. One does not simply wake and think “this is the day I will freak out”, or “I believe I want to have a panic attack”.

Anxiety and panic attacks are very real. Both issues can be severely debilitating to those who suffer from them. Some have certain triggers which awaken the beast from within. Others tend to overthink situations and then the issues become bigger than than any solution they could surmise.

Panic attacks feel as though one cannot breathe, literally. As if every single ounce of air is drained from the lungs. Taking deep breaths is very labor intensive and taxing. They can quite mimic a heart attack, as it feels like a herd of elephants are tromping on one’s chest. They make the person feel completely helpless and, until it is under control, alone. Cold sweats can often accompany a panic attack beginning at the palms.

Anxiety walks hand in hand with panic attacks. Everyone wants to be accepted, liked and loved for who they are, not some facade of what they believe people would like. People who suffer with anxiety often make out like things are alright when, in truth, they are quietly fighting an internal battle.

People who suffer, oftentimes come across as the strong ones, people everyone leans on or goes to for help. Rarely will they ask for help themselves. When they do finally breakdown, they should be treated with compassion, kindness and understanding. They did not ask to have an anxiety issue, nor do they want to suffer panic attacks. Be mindful of those facts.

Some have said college is an extension of high school. I would like to think it is not. High school is catty, drama filled and can be downright mean. When one goes to college, it should be more of an adult environment, leaving behind all of the pettiness experienced in high school by some, created by others. You make lifelong friendships in college, create bonds with brothers and sisters you would never have come across had it not been for Delta State University. People from all walks of life, different cultures and nationalities make up the student base. Acceptance is crucial.

Over the summer, a beautiful young man took his life. He was 19 years old, a freshman. Imagine how alone he felt, although he had a slew of friends who loved him more than he would have ever known. He showed some signs – withdrawing from friends, not participating in things he once did. Some have said he was a coward to take his life that way. Nobody knows what goes on in someone’s head when they feel there is no hope. He was NOT a coward. He was a child who left a grieving Momma, Daddy and two sisters. He was a child who left behind friends who, to this day, still question themselves, asking why and if only. That is something you never want to experience personally.

As this new year begins, please be mindful of fraternity brothers, sorority sisters and fellow classmates. Kindness costs nothing. Lending an ear to a friend is free and could possibly change their life. Nobody should ever feel so alone although surrounded by a crowd of people. If you see someone who appears to be struggling, offer a simple word of encouragement. Not everyone is happy go lucky, although they may appear as such. Leave the ugliness of being petty and spiteful behind. Chose to be a good person, a good friend. Although not everyone may have the kind heart you have, some of what you may have to offer can help others.

Sincerely,
Virginia Fontaine