Alexander Pena Ibanez, a sophomore biology major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is actively advocating for mental health awareness based on his personal experiences. He aspires to become a psychiatrist and aims to support others struggling with mental health issues even before he enters medical school.
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Through the organization Out of the Darkness UNL, Pena Ibanez encourages fellow students to openly discuss their mental health and seek necessary resources. He emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health, stating, "Mental health is such a big topic that I don’t think we could ever talk enough about it. Your brain is everything, really, so if you’re feeling sad or isolated, there are a lot of experiences that you can miss out on. It can affect your academics, your social life and really anything, so it’s really important to talk to people and ask for help because there are so many places where you can find it."
Pena Ibanez's interest in mental health advocacy was sparked during a challenging time in high school, motivating him to assist others in similar situations. He found a platform for this through Out of the Darkness UNL, which focuses on mental health awareness. The organization hosts speakers and meetings, culminating in an annual spring walk that raises funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. He noted that this event serves as a reminder that many individuals face unseen struggles, reinforcing the need for collective acknowledgment and support.
"We truly never know what anyone is going through, so I think it’s important to just name these things for others," he said. "I’ve learned that talking to people can bring so much relief and help you realize that you don’t need to have all the answers right away."
The university offers various resources, including Counseling and Psychological Services, the Well-Being Collective, the Center for Academic Success and Transition, and the Center for Advocacy, Response and Education.
To manage his own stress, Pena Ibanez incorporates simple practices into his routine, such as taking breaks and going for walks. "So many different aspects of college life can really drain you, so I’ve learned to take little resets and breaks all the time," he explained. He advises against turning to social media for comfort, suggesting physical activity instead, which can lead to seeing familiar faces on campus and reinforcing a sense of connection.
For those experiencing stress, anxiety, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts, resources are available 24/7. Counseling and Psychological Services can be reached at 402-472-7450, and the Employee Assistance Program is available at 402-472-3107. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline can be contacted by texting or calling 988.