Mikhayla is the reigning Miss Clinton County and will be competing for the title of Miss Iowa in a few weeks. Her platform is How About Hope, which is a nonprofit that she created.
“Let me start off by saying most people can sympathize with those who have struggled with depression and suicide, but only some can empathize. Trust me when I say that I know how it feels to cry yourself to sleep. Trust that I know how it feels to not want to live anymore. I know how it feels to question your existence upon waking every morning, asking God why he allowed me to live another day.
"In 2014, I suffered from suicidal thoughts and depression. I remember the ongoing pain of living; pain so persistent that my body ached. I became numb to my surroundings; I honestly can’t tell you much about the end of junior year. The heart can only handle so much at one time. I was so exhausted. Depression is one of the darkest and saddest places a person can venture into, and once you are in, it is hard to leave. It begins to consume every part of your life, and takes a lot of strength deny your sadness. Just when you begin to enjoy life, depression will creep in like, "Hey you're worthless remember?" or "You're not good enough to do that." Or worse, "just give up." But how do you fight these thoughts? How do you win this internal battle? I learned that it is a process, and it starts with saying, “Hey, I’m going to be okay today.”
"That is where it all starts; Prayer was the only thing besides my best friend & my mom that got me through.
"Since I was able to get through, I always make it a point to share my story with my platform, #HowAboutHOPE.
"Call someone today and let them know why they are important to you! Everyone needs a little encouragement sometimes, and you never know what someone may be going through.”
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