Join me in fighting the stigma around mental health.

Although my giving page is no longer active, you can still donate. If you would like to provide any additional support, please do so here.

My name is Tyler Eatman; I am a fourth-year college student from West Orange, NJ. I am majoring in Sport Industry and double minoring in Leadership Studies and Higher Education & Student Affairs (HESA). I plan to attend graduate school, pursue a dual degree in law and a master’s in business administration. My future career goals are becoming either a sports agent or working as a compliance officer for a prestigious college/university. 

Throughout my college journey, I have had the opportunity to be an active member of the Ohio State community with various student organizations and campus employment. I have had the privilege of serving as Vice President of Bucket & Dipper Junior Class Honorary, President of Siebert Hall Activities Council, Ambassador and Treasurer of Band of Brothers, Programming Chair of Fabulous Unique Neighborhood, and worked as an Office Assistant for Siebert Hall. This year, I serve as the Director of Member Recruitment for the National Residence Hall Honorary, Faculty-Staff Reception Chair for 108th Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society, member of Band of Brothers, and member of the Association for the Business of Sports. In addition to my multiple leadership responsibilities, I am a Community Advisor for Gateway/Hall Complex and an Academic Coach at the Walter E. Dennis Learning Center. Lastly, I have the pleasure of working as an Event Management Intern for the Department of Athletics this fall and spring semester. From the numerous leadership roles and experiences, I have developed my network and enhanced my personal and professional skills. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected individuals in every aspect of their lives. Many people have felt hopeless and scared from losing love ones, family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors. This pandemic has made mental health a top priority. Many people struggled with understanding what the future holds for them and when they will move forward from these unprecedented times. As a result of these racing thoughts and unanswered questions, individuals start to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are common mental health illnesses in the U.S. 

Although mental health-related concerns have risen during the pandemic, mental health has always been an issue within the Black community. Individuals in the Black community are not seeking mental health care due to multiple reasons related to the stigma of mental health and other societal factors. These stigmas are often negative and viewed as being weak if you have any mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization, 25% of African Americans seek mental health care, compared to 40% of whites. Often in the Black community, mental health can be developed through traumatic experiences such as racism, prejudices, and societal stressors. While facing these opportunities, Black community members resist seeking help needed and dealing with mental illness for their entire lives, which can be generationally passed down for many years. 

Supporting the Black Alumni society will help raise awareness and educate the Black community on mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed. In addition, this will also allow the Black community to fight the negative stigma around mental health. The Black Alumni Society and I will continue having conversations advocating for the Black community to focus on mental health concerns.