Multimedia Journalism

PCOS and Mental Health

In a bustling café in downtown Seattle, a small group of women gathers for a support meeting, united by a common struggle: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). As laughter mingles with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the conversation turns serious. For many, PCOS is not just a physical condition; it profoundly affects their mental health, weaving a complex tapestry of emotions that often goes unnoticed.

PCOS affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, yet its symptoms—irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and infertility—are only part of the story. The hormonal imbalance associated with PCOS can lead to increased levels of anxiety and depression, creating a cycle that can feel inescapable. “It’s not just about the physical symptoms,” says Dr. Emily Chen, a reproductive endocrinologist. “Many women with PCOS experience emotional distress, which can be triggered by societal pressures, stigma, and the genuine challenges of managing the condition.”

Recent studies have shown that women with PCOS are at a significantly higher risk for mental health disorders. One study published in the *Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism* found that women with PCOS are 2.5 times more likely to experience anxiety and depression compared to those without the condition. The psychological toll can stem from various sources: hormonal fluctuations, body image issues, and the stress of living with a chronic condition. “I felt like I was constantly battling my body,” shares Sarah, a 28-year-old graphic designer diagnosed with PCOS three years ago. “The weight gain and skin issues made me feel less confident. I struggled with anxiety, and it made everything worse.” Sarah’s experience is not unique; many women report similar feelings of inadequacy and frustration.

The support meeting serves as a haven for these women, where they can share their experiences and coping strategies. “Just knowing I’m not alone in this struggle helps,” says Mia, a participant who has been living with PCOS since her teens. “We talk about our feelings, our challenges, and the small victories—like finding a good doctor or trying a new exercise that helps.” Psychologists emphasize the importance of community and support networks. “Peer support can be incredibly beneficial,” says Dr. Lisa Martinez, a psychologist specializing in women’s health. “Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation and empower women to advocate for their health.”

Beyond support groups, various treatment options can aid in managing both PCOS and its mental health implications. Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, have shown promise in alleviating symptoms. Additionally, therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help address anxiety and depression, providing tools for coping with the emotional challenges of PCOS.

Despite the growing awareness of PCOS and its effects, many women still face stigma. The society often trivializes women’s health issues, leading to feelings of shame and embarrassment. “There’s a misconception that it’s just a weight issue or that it’s not ‘serious’,” explains Dr. Chen. “This stigma can prevent women from seeking help and addressing their mental health.”

Efforts to educate the public about PCOS are gaining momentum. Campaigns led by advocacy groups aim to raise awareness, foster understanding, and encourage open conversations. “We need to break the silence around PCOS,” says Mia. “It’s not just a reproductive issue; it affects our mental well-being, and that needs to be acknowledged.”

As the support meeting winds down, the women share hugs and encouraging words. For many, the road to managing PCOS is still a work in progress, but the solidarity they find in each other offers hope. They leave with renewed strength, knowing they are not alone in their struggles. For women battling PCOS, understanding the link between physical and mental health is crucial. With continued advocacy, education, and support, there is hope for a brighter, healthier future—one where they can embrace their bodies and mental well-being, free from stigma and judgment.

A Senior’s Farewell to Winterfest: A Night to Remember

by : Tia St Julien

As I step onto the stage for my final Winterfest performance, a rush of bittersweet emotions washes over me. This year marks the 59th annual celebration, and for me, it’s not just another Winterfest—it’s the culmination of years of memories, growth, and connection.

The Bay Path Chorale and Page Singers begin to take their places, the room alive with anticipation. The faint hum of tuning instruments mingles with the excited whispers of the audience, creating a prelude to the magic about to unfold. The lights dim, and the first notes of a familiar carol fill the air. My heart swells as I look out at the sea of faces—students, faculty, friends, and community members—all gathered to salute the season.

This performance is more than music and poetry; it’s a tapestry of stories and emotions woven together with the threads of inspiration and goodwill. I remember my first Winterfest, nervously clutching my sheet music, unsure of my place. Over the years, this event has become a cornerstone of my college experience. Each song and verse carries the weight of shared laughter, tears, and joy.

Tonight, every note feels like a love letter to the season and a goodbye to this cherished tradition. As we perform alongside guest artists and community voices, I can’t help but marvel at how Winterfest unites us all. It’s a reminder that the holidays are not just about festivity but also about connection and reflection.

When the final song ends, the applause is thunderous, reverberating through the hall like an embrace. We leave the stage, but the night is far from over. The After-Party & Holiday Cheerfest in Blake Dining Commons awaits—a chance to savor cookies, cocoa, and the camaraderie of carol karaoke.

As I join friends in decking the halls one last time, I feel immense gratitude. Winterfest has been more than a performance; it’s been a celebration of community, creativity, and the joy of coming together. Walking away from this stage tonight, I carry the melodies in my heart, knowing they will resonate within me long after the final bell jingles.

Here’s to Winterfest—a helluva jolly good time and a lifelong memory.

Writing For the Media

Speech about Mental Health

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that affects each and every one of us, directly or indirectly: mental health. It's a subject that has long been shrouded in stigma and misconception, but it's time we confront it with understanding and empathy. Mental health is not merely the absence of mental illness; it's a state of well-being in which every individual realizes their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and can make meaningful contributions to their community. Yet, despite its importance, mental health continues to be overlooked and sidelined in our society. Many suffer in silence, afraid to seek help due to fear of judgment or discrimination. But this silence only perpetuates the cycle of suffering. It's time to break this silence. It's time to start conversations about mental health openly and without judgment. It's time to create a culture where seeking help for mental health issues is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. We must also recognize that mental health is not a one-size-fits-all issue. It affects individuals differently, and therefore, our approach to addressing it must be holistic and inclusive. This means providing accessible and affordable mental health care services, promoting mental health education and awareness, and fostering supportive communities where individuals feel safe to share their struggles. As we work towards a more mentally healthy society, let us remember that each of us has a role to play. Whether it's checking in on a friend or loved one, advocating for better mental health policies, or simply being more compassionate towards ourselves and others, every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. So let us stand together, break the silence, and prioritize mental health in our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. Because only by working together can we create a world where mental health is valued, supported, and prioritized for all.

Thank you.

Radio Script

This is Tia Talks in which I will talk about anything that tickles my fancy. The topics can range from books, movies, and current events. You name it I will probably talk about it. For today’s segment we are going to talk about Harry Potter and how fanfiction is bringing together readers of all generations. For those of you who do not know, Harry Potter is a 7 book series, written by J.K. Rowling. We follow a young boy who lives with his Aunt and Uncle who do not treat him the best. On Harry’s 11th birthday a strange man comes to his door and tells him that he is a wizard. He tells him that Harry’s parents did not die in a car crash but rather from a dark wizard who wants to rule both the wizarding and human realm. For any of our listeners who do not know what fanfiction is let me tell you. Fanfiction is when fans of a book or movie, or even a video game use those works to create a story of their own. Fanfiction is completely free and these authors just do it of their free will and time. These works can consist of completely the same characters and they only change the ending. They also can use the characters and create a new world that they live in. A world in which they are in a band or are all pirates. I have been part of the fanfiction scene for quite some time and it has always been so fun to see how these different authors see the characters. The most popular of the characters are undeniable but there is a focus on certain groups. The “golden trio” era consists of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. Then the “marauders” era which included Harry’s dad, James Potter and his godfather, Sirius black. The marauders also consisted of his best friends Remus Lupin and Peter Pettigrew. In fanfic they are written in the 70s living out their Hogwarts lives. There was a side of Tik Tok that was brought to attention in 2020 which ignited the spark of the Harry Potter resurgence. This spark brought back the older generations who wished to know more about the marauders and how their story would have played out. This also brought in newer readers who found a love for the characters through Tik Tok and brought all these characters in a new light. That new light ranges from them all being in a hunger games universe or even they are all LGBTQIA+ It is such an amazing sight to see all people find something universal that ignites this love and care of reading and connecting with people worlds away.

Op-Ed

Is Booktok ruining the reading experience?

Books have been generating a lot more traction ever since TikTok became more popular. As readers they become connected to other like minded people who also love books. This also allows authors to market their books in a faster way. Some books that became popular because of “Booktok” include, the ACOTAR series by Sarah J. Maas, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, and the Caraval series by Stephanie Garber. Personally I love how much the books are being shared and that everyone is either reading these books at the same time or just getting into it. This however brings up the point of “fast fashion.” The popularity is rising and we are in the era of readily available information at all times. The readers want books sooner and that puts pressure on the author to write the books faster. The issue that comes into play is that the books are becoming less quality than before. Personally I did not truly notice that shift but a lot of people have. There are a lot of authors who are still taking the time and energy they always have put into their books but there are some who are pushing out books and books but the quality is not the same. Being an avid reader and seeing this from all sides there is merit to everything being said but it is truly a matter of how you read your books. I encourage you to keep reading and finding those special books that make everything worthwhile. I added a checklist of some of the most popular books that have been circling booktok for a year. Have you read any of these books? Will you give into the hype?

Press Release

April 10, 2024 Contact: Tia St Julien, Bay Path University

Email: tstjulien@baypath.edu

Senior Issue: Network News

[The Future of Bay Path]

[Longmeadow, MA, April 10–] The Network News is a student-run newspaper run out of Bay Path University. The newsroom focuses on many things from events happening around campus, to important issues happening within the community. There are also sections about health, mental or physical, as well as a creative spotlight. This specific issue is a special one on many accounts because it highlights graduating seniors and it gives them the opportunity to share their time here for the last few years. This article will also talk about some of the changes that Bay Path has most recently implemented. This issue of the Network News will have two main focuses, one on the Seniors and on how Bay Path has gotten rid of a lot of programs. The Seniors have a lot of knowledge to give the underclassmen and how best to navigate the rest of their Bay Path careers. It also gives them a chance to say goodbye to the place and people that got them to this point. This is important for multiple reasons but the first being that the students need to be made aware. There are many people who are not aware that programs are getting cut and no one is entirely sure what other programs did not make it. This will also help us to leave resources to those who have no idea what to do. Giving those people voices and having a conversation about what is going on.