Unmasked

I wish everyone had access to this app and the opportunity to use it daily. Not gonna lie, when I first heard about it, I wasn’t interested. I was scared that the administration would see my data and didn’t want to use my phone any more than absolutely necessary. As I learned more about this revolutionary mental health movement, however, the more I started to see the value in having a supportive, anonymous community comprised of my peers. This app has renewed my faith in humanity more times than I can keep count of. It has given me perspective on the struggles that others are going through. Moreover, it’s been a tool for self-reflection and an empowering avenue for me to tangibly support others. The connections I’ve made with other users are so meaningful because I know they are students who dwell on the same campus as me. But more importantly, the conversations and posts on the app are so human because people can be radically honest about their lives. Thank you for creating this. The world is a better place because of this community.

This app isn’t perfect. There aren’t too many people using the app so responses can vary in length and turnaround time. But especially in a setting where words like isolation and social distancing become synonymous, it’s a god send. The best part is that everybody is anonymous. At times it feels like an invisible army is always present on the other side of the screen waiting to offer kind and supportive words. I’ve personally found it difficult to be kind with myself in the past, however I’ve been feeling a lot better recently due in part to the support I’ve gotten on this app. No worries, frustrations, or thoughts are off limits and no matter what you say guarantee there is someone who either has a similar experience as you or can validate your emotions. This is what we need to happen in real life, but over an app platform is a pretty good start too.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not a social outcast or unpopular. I have a strong social group who I’m always able to have a good time with. But recently I’ve found it harder and harder to turn my brain off around others and just relax and enjoy myself like I used to. A lot of the things that I stress about have to do with my personal relationships and the people I’m closest with, so it’s hard to vent to those very people. Unmasked is a godsend because I AM talking to those same people that feel the same way, but they don’t know it’s me. The anonymity is so freeing. I will say though that this app gives you what you put into it, so don’t expect to magically feel happy until you fully and honestly open yourself up. And hey what’s to lose, it’s completely free and anonymous. Going to therapy can be a pain sometimes and unmasked has really helped me when I can’t get to my therapist.