Jessika Carter, a senior member of the Mississippi State women’s basketball team, took to social media to speak openly about her mental health and the struggles she has dealt with. In a post shared on Instagram, Carter shared an account of her struggles with depression.
Carter courageously and openly discussed everything that led up to her needing and receiving help and how she is now “out of a dark space” because of the help she received.
In her post, Carter states how she has learned “that people care. That [she] will always have people there even when they don’t know [her].” Carter is now celebrating her birthday and also that she’s moving forward.
“I AM HAPPY. I AM BLESSED. AND I AM LOVED. Most importantly, I AM HERE TO STAY,” Carter wrote.
In her note, Carter stressed the importance of checking on people who might need help. From her post, it is clear that Carter is working on recovering and that she has hope for the future.
“CHEERS to more life,” Carter wrote, finishing her post.
While still with the program and listed on the roster, Carter previously stepped away to address “personal matters.” It is not clear if or when she will return to the team, but Mississippi State’s interim head coach Doug Novak said in October that he was hopeful that Carter could return soon.
As the Clarion Ledger’s Andy Kostka tweets, Novak did not give a clear timetable for Carter’s possible return.
If you or someone you know needs help, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. The line is available to call 24/7. For more information on the lifeline, click here.
Mississippi State University has resources available at the Mississippi State Student Counseling Services. To reach someone at the Student Counseling Services, call 662-325-2091 during normal business hours. If you need assistance after-hours, call 662-325-2091. To learn more about the Student Counseling Services, click here. For a list of emergency resources, click here.
To contact a trained listener at the Crisis Text Line, text HELLO to 741741. The service is free and confidential for anyone to use. For more information about the Crisis Text Line, click here.
For more information on warning signs and what to do if you or someone you know needs help, click here.
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