So Should I Stop Pursuing Public Health🤔?

An honest reflection on why the field still needs you, even when it feels overwhelming.

There has been so much going on in 2025. Public health has been catching many strays due to the current political climate. 

As some of you know, the field is under attack with many federal funding cuts, job cuts, and layoffs. 

There is a lot of controversy and discourse about people who are interested in public health and don't know if it is worth it anymore. I have been reading Instagram posts, online articles, and Reddit conversations and heard many diverse opinions on this topic. Some say people should seek other career fields due to the recent layoffs at federal agencies, while others say this is the PERFECT time to pursue careers and degrees in public health. 

My best friend and I are currently minoring in public health and had a conversation recently about the future of public health and how scary it is for the field, as we have so many politicians who are not experts in our field taking it over through spreading false information, causing erasure of vital information such as COVID-19 data and reproductive justice advocacy.

This conversation and the video she sent me via TikTok inspired me to write this article, as it is so important to do so during this time of uncertainty.

"We Need More People in Public Health" -Tiktok video by @leleda.

Below are some examples of the articles and Reddit conversations:

With all the burnout, underfunding, and heavy headlines, it's very common for many to feel discouraged. Here’s what I advise:

Understand that Public Health NEEDS YOU🌎:

Although the system does not listen and understand that all professionals, leaders, and advocates are needed, we must stay strong in reshaping the current climate. It is terrifying right now in the field, but we would do ourselves a disservice if we allow the system to steer our passion away from helping our population's health. Public health is deeply rooted in community service and social justice, essential to advocating for local and global communities.

Always Reflect on Your "Why"🌟:

This journey is more challenging than ever, but it is happening for a reason. We are all being tried mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, so we must stay grounded and return to our purpose. Revisiting my "why" always keeps me going at times when I don't feel present. Always ask yourself occasionally why you fell in love or decided to pursue public health. Your "why" is not just something that will constantly motivate you, as it is not about feeling motivated all the time; it's a compass that guides you to being disciplined. Allow it to guide your decisions and joy in working in the field. 

Own Your Narrative📖:

After hearing Michelle Obama emphasize the importance of owning our stories, that sharing what we’ve been through is powerful because it doesn’t end there, her words have stayed with me. Do not shrink your story because it is being dismissed by a system built with many restrictions and erasure of the stories that stand tall to break down these injustices. Take up space and KNOW that this field develops with well-rounded individuals who DO NOT compromise their whole selves to belong.

Find Community Through the Uncertainty💌:

Finding a community of like-minded people is so important that the weight of the current climate that public health is combatting can feel unbearable. You are not alone. Please seek community so you are supported in many ways. Whether academically, socially, or many others, I encourage you all to understand that the purpose of community is to remind you that your fears are heard and that joining a group of people who truly understand your frustrations and emotions during this time is essential.

Indulge in Self-Care💆🏾♀️💗:

Self-care is anything that makes YOU happy and takes the time to dive into things that bring you happiness and relaxation. Indulging in self-care helps you grow as an individual. There are many ways to practice self-care, from resisting burnout and challenging negative thoughts to simply allowing yourself to rest. These acts of self-care can help you take a pause on what is going on around you and guide you to developing the mindset of how you deserve to rest. We are human and need to check in with ourselves through care.

Now let us revisit the question, "Should We Stop Pursuing Public Health"?...

Absolutely not!!! You can pause and feel all the emotions you are currently facing, but do not let this time of chaos redirect your passion into something you do not see yourself doing. Public health needs more people like us, and I believe that finding community, taking pauses, and revisiting your "why" will help us all knock down the obstacles currently in the field. 

It is not easy but it is not impossible. Public Health needs us all💗. 

mirror picture of me before attending a Health Careers Event🙃!