F.I.S.H (Friends In Self Help)

My name is Ryann and I'm a dreamer. I like to dream of a world where nobody struggles with mental and/or physical health. At 13, I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. I also had chronic eczema and was suffering with Topical Steroid Withdrawal. I didn't see the point in being alive. The only reason I am still here is because of the amazing support system I had of friends and family. For the first time in my life, I feel alive. I've learned to really live and not just survive. I want to make sure that everybody has that. That everyone is able to experience what it's like to be alive.

I'm Miranda Ring, a student at MATES, grappling with severe anxiety and clinical depression. Surviving multiple suicide attempts has been part of my journey, but it's also fueled my determination to make a difference. I'm driven to use my experiences to raise awareness among teens and students about mental health. That's why I've chosen FISH as my Girl Scout gold award project—to advocate for better support and understanding in educational environments. Through this initiative, I hope to inspire others and break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues.