Mental Health Advocacy at SUNY Middletown NY: Ruslan Smirnov’s Inspiring Journey

by Ruslan Smirnov | Jan 16, 2026 | Agency in orange county, TBI Program | 0 comments

I am Ruslan Smirnov, and I am pursuing further research on the lives of social media influencers, as I; most people think mental health advocacy is just talk. At SUNY Middletown, I gained experience with mental health influencers who showed me how community support sparks real personal growth and mental wellness. This story shares the lessons and connections that built a supportive environment, proving that small actions can create positive change. Stick around to see how these moments shaped my path and might inspire your own.

my mental illness day

After a first day at SUNY Orange:

So, I spent the day at SUNY Orange Middletown, and honestly, it was a pretty big moment for me. It was my first time at Orange County Community College, juggling the excitement of a new environment and my own mental health challenges. Picture this: walking across campus, meeting all these fresh faces, trying to piece together how everything works—it was a cocktail of nerves and optimism. Even though it felt overwhelming, it also seemed like the dawn of a new chapter, a place where I could gradually grow and discover more about who I am as  one of the social media influencers working with issues of mental health

Meeting Mental Health social media influencers

Thats how my journey into mental health issues and advocacy at SUNY Orange began with chance meetings that changed everything. These first connections showed me that real change happens through people who care enough to act, not just talk about problems. Today, I started promoting a taxi service near my location on social media. It felt good to share something useful with others, and it reminded me how even simple actions can help someone who needs it. For example, while working with Goshen Grooves branding, we help people with a mental illness to overcome anxiety

Research SUNY Orange County:

So, there I was, kicking off my research into my Orange County community college adventure. Picture a chilly Friday, with that crisp winter air whispering “new beginnings” as everything feels hush-hush. My heart was doing a little tango of nervousness and excitement as I geared up for this journey. When the taxi pulled up right on schedule, the driver whisked me from Goshen over to Fishkill, giving me a window-gazing moment to daydream about what lay ahead.

We and ower well being, and social media use in life today: 

Once upon a time, I began to carve out a role for myself as a social media influencer, all while wrestling with my own mental health hurdles. I realized I had some mountains to climb, and sharing my story online became my way to express myself and reach out for support. This journey eventually led me to seek guidance from mental health professionals who helped guide me through some of my toughest times.

A taxi Middletown NY

From Middletown to Fishkill, I connected with folks who really got where I was coming from and guided me in better self-care. Their encouragement played a pivotal role in strengthening me, both individually and in the social media work I do today. Read about some of the most memorable moments of a WordPress developer.