Northeast students, high school students, and members of the community gathered in the Lifelong Learning Center in Norfolk on Wednesday morning for the “What’s Your Big Lie” event. The event was created by Canadian internet star, Jordan Axani and is based on the concept that everyone has a big lie that shields us from being who we truly are. Members of the audience were given a number where they could anonymously text in their lie. In doing so many people discovered they are not alone with the secrets they are harboring.

In today’s world, many of us are struggling with anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts and tendencies. In fact, 1 in 2 college students say they believe that their mental health is poor. This event gave people who are struggling with mental health issues a chance to talk about their problems in a safe environment where no one would judge them. People who attended left knowing that they are not alone in the challenges they face every day.

Many people texted in saying they were depressed, suicidal, or feeling inadequate to their family and friends. It was a very powerful and eye opening event for everyone who attended. It seemed as if every person in the room participated and they discovered how so many other people are feeling similar to them. Sometimes, the best feeling in the world is knowing that you are not alone.