Chattanooga Student Mason Edwards Inspires First-Generation Peers by Sharing His Mental Health Journey

Chattanooga’s Mason Edwards Shares Heartfelt Journey on National First-Generation Day

CHATTANOOGA, TN – On a slightly cloudy day in Chattanooga, as the temperature hovers around 73°F, the air is filled with a sense of hope and resilience. Mason Edwards, a senior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) and proud first-generation college student, is making waves by sharing his personal story in honor of National First-Generation Day.

Mason’s journey, marked by struggles with severe anxiety and feelings of isolation, begins in a seemingly perfect world in Dayton, Tennessee, surrounded by family support and beautiful autumn landscapes. But beneath that calm surface lay a storm of overwhelming emotions fueled by academic pressures and self-doubt. “It was like the walls were closing in on me,” Mason reflected, highlighting how something as simple as picking out a Lego set felt like a monumental decision.

From Anxiety to Empowerment

Many people often equate asking for help with weakness, but Mason’s story is a testament to the power of vulnerability. His mentor, Jason Harville, Assistant Director of Residence Education and Academic Initiatives at UTC, believes otherwise. “Recognizing you need assistance is the bravest thing you can do,” Harville emphasizes, encouraging students to speak up about their mental health challenges.

Throughout Mason’s childhood, he grappled with a constant cycle of anxiety that peaked during his teenage years. “At 15, I faced thoughts of endangering my life,” he admits. The pressures of trying to fit in and a secret relationship led him down a dark path, but the support of his family and mentors seemed to shine a light during his lowest moments.

A New Chapter in College

When Mason transitioned to UTC, he sought out programs like Moc-Up, which provides newcomers with resources and connections on campus. “I was anxious about making friends. I had no idea about college life,” he reveals. However, the support he received through student services offered him a newfound sense of belonging, paving the way for him to claim his narrative and help others.

The arrival of COVID-19 shook everyone’s world, yet for Mason, it became a turning point. While many felt isolated, he discovered that letting go of things beyond his control helped ease his anxiety. “I found peace in accepting that I couldn’t control everything,” he noted. It was during these trying times that he first sought counseling at UTC, which ultimately changed his life.

Sharing His Story

After attending numerous sessions, Mason learned to understand his thoughts, emotions, and behaviors better, realizing that his mental health challenges were not personal failings but rather struggles that many face. “Once I could name what afflicted me, I realized I had power over it,” he explained.

Thanks to supportive staff at the Counseling Center, he also explored medication to help manage his anxiety—an avenue he was initially hesitant to consider. “It was like seeing the world in color for the first time,” Mason recalls, describing the relief he felt. Even his father began addressing his own mental health struggles, acknowledging the transformation of their family dynamics.

A Call to Action

As Mason shares his journey, he encourages other first-generation students to embrace their vulnerabilities and prioritize mental health. “Ask for help. Your story is one of strength,” he urges, hoping to inspire those who may feel lost or confused, just as he once did.

If you’re a student at UTC or anyone in need of support, he recommends resources like the Student Success Programs, Student Support Services, and the Counseling Center. “Believe me; your mental health matters, and there are people ready to help you,” Mason reassures, reiterating that breaking the silence around mental health is vital.

As the clouds linger above Chamberlain Field, Mason Edwards stands as a beacon of resilience and inspiration—a true testament to the strength found in vulnerability. With every word he shares, he opens the door for others to find their voices, embrace their stories, and choose to thrive rather than simply survive.