Thread by @DisInHigherEd

One last thing before I log out: I am not perfect. Recovery and progress are not always linear. I still have bad days, bad mornings, bad afternoons... 1/

Sometimes I don't practice what I preach, and I use that as an opportunity to hold myself accountable in the process. It is so immensely difficult to prioritize mental health, well-being and to take care of yourself in higher education. 2/

Sometimes I find myself just surviving, and what may seem like the bare minimum is me trying the best I can. And you know what? That is okay! 3/

I know a lot of mental health advocate therapy and medication, etc. But guess what? The reality for many people is that those can't be obtained due to costs, inaccessibility, etc. And that is not discussed enough. Seeking treatment is a privilege. 4/

I did not have access to therapy due to financial and accessibility reasons for almost two years. It was so rough, and I had to cope with things alone. If you resonate with this at all, please know that I see you, I hear you, it really sucks and I am so sorry. 5/

If you are struggling, I want you to know that you are not alone. Mental illness(es) lie, they are deceitful. Know there are communities on this bird app that are so welcoming and so supportive. 6/

Although I may seem like I have it together as a PhD student at Harvard, guess what? I am a mess! My life is in shambles. My journey in higher education has been chaotic, but I am still here fighting so higher education is accessible to all. 7/

I (@arianaelena97) would like to thank the Disabled In Higher Ed team for having me here and for giving me the privilege to use their platform. It is such an honor to share my words, my stories, my perspective. 8/

As @nolan_syreeta has told me ' Disability is not a liability...' My disabilities are a part of me that allow me to thrive in my own way. My experiences with my disabilities and mental illnesses have molded me into the person, scientist, student, and researcher I am today. 9/

@nolan_syreeta I would like to thank y'all for the love and support throughout my takeover. It has been an absolute pleasure to chat and have these conversations with you all. We must continue to normalize mental health while also amplifying BIPOC folks in Disabled and Mental Health spaces. 10/

@nolan_syreeta If you want to chat and continue the discussion(s). You know where to find me! -@arianaelena97 /End