"Breaking Down Stigma Through Social Media: My Journey as a Mental Health Advocate and Content Creator"

Empowering Women: My Journey as a Member of CHAARG, an all-women's fitness organization.

The summer before I went to the University of Iowa, I spent a lot of my time researching student organizations and clubs to join. I was very adamant about making the most out of my college experience. I searched #iowa #uiowa #universityofiowa for hours on end. I was determined to find my fit.

During this search, I found out about CHAARG. CHAARG stands for "Changing Health Attitudes & Actions to Recreate Girls." CHAARG's mission is to "ignite a passion for movement in college women. Too many college women rely solely on the elliptical for exercise. Our mission is to 'liberate girls from the elliptical' + show them that fitness can [+should] be fun.. + that working out is better with friends! Once you join CHAARG, you are welcomed into a supportive + empowering community of 10,000 + women! Every week, you'll try a different fitness class- like: pilates, kickboxing, cardio dance, + more! When you workout, you'll feel good- but, when you surround yourself with people to support you, you'll feel better. CHAARG combines great friends + fun workouts to help every member feel their best."

I had no idea how #iowachaarg would have saved my life.

As a general member, I participated in workouts and events, but it wasn't until I became an executive board member as the social media coordinator that I truly began to grow, both physically and mentally.

Through this organization, I was able to push myself to new physical limits and achieve goals I never thought were possible. I personally am not into weightlifting but every year I tried to hit the racks in the "man cave". I also found myself growing spiritually, as I discovered new ways to connect with my body and mind. I took the time to listen to what my body was telling me. I heard when it was tired, overworked, happy, sleepy, etc. CHAARG gave me the ability to tune in and listen to myself in a new way. But perhaps most importantly, I was able to express my mental health in ways I never thought I could before. I was always an advocate for mental health. I knew how to advocate for others but never for myself. CHAARG gave me the tools, support, and strength to do so.

Being a part of this organization gave me the opportunity to create content that shared my mental and physical health journey with others. I was the first person to run the Instagram for Iowa CHAARG. Through my writing, videos, and social media posts, I was able to inspire and connect with women who were going through similar struggles. I was able to connect with folks I never had a conversation with. I was able to relate to their struggles. I was able to check in on them if they took a step back. I was able to congratulate them on their personal goals. I was able to grow and learn alongside other CHAARG girls behind the screen and they could feel the love and support I had to offer. I was able to connect with people all over the nation as well as my fellow #iowachaarg community. I, along with my executive team, paved the way for what CHAARG means to the University of Iowa community. We wanted to create a community that was passionate, open to growth, and supportive of others in the community.

But it wasn't just about creating content. This organization gave me the chance to form deep and meaningful friendships with women who supported and encouraged me every step of the way. I was not afraid to take a mental health day. I wasn't afraid to feed my body what it craved. I wasn't afraid to try a new workout. I wasn't afraid to take a break from social media when my life erupted into chaos. CHAARG taught me to set boundaries and expand my horizons. I have so many memories of laughing, sweating, and pushing each other to be our best selves.

Looking back, I realize that being a part of this organization was more than just a fitness journey. It was a transformative experience that shaped my life for the better. It taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and community. It gave me the confidence to pursue my passions and share my voice with the world. It gave me the confidence to be a mental health advocate for myself.

To any woman (or individual) out there who may be hesitant to join a fitness organization or try something new, I encourage you to take that leap of faith. You never know where it might take you, but I promise it will be worth it. When women come together to empower each other, incredible things can happen.

Thank you to CHAARG and the community for saving my life. I wouldn't be the open-minded, vocal, and empowered individual I am today. I continue to learn how to advocate for myself and others. I hope you all find a place that can do the same for you.