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October 14, 2025 — This Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m thinking about the state of mental health in our community. I reflect on my early years and the challenges I faced navigating expectations and culture in my Hispanic family. Growing up, I experienced personal challenges because within our culture, mental health was frequently disregarded and undertreated. This reality meant that to avoid the judgment and misunderstanding, I had to learn to deal with my mental health problems in private. And I know this is a reality that many people who come of age in Hispanic households can relate to. I felt really confined as a young girl because I didn't feel like I could tell my family about my mental health struggles. I worried that if I told them I was depressed, they wouldn't understand and would try to convince me that I wasn't ill. And when I did the brave thing and spoke up about my mental health, the fears I had were validated. When I finally opened up, my mother dismissed my feelings. She told me that people in our religion and culture don't get depressed. I was told that it was a sin to have negative feelings about myself because I was God’s creation and that it wasn’t right to criticize his work. It was devastating to hear in such a vulnerable moment. Fortunately, when I decided to tell my father about what I was feeling, he understood. Having faced similar emotional roadblocks with his own mother, he knew what I was going through. He tried his best to console me and urged me to seek help, whether it was through school counseling or therapy. My father's support became a crucial source of comfort, but it was still a long road. It took me a very long time to fully accept my mental condition and be honest with myself. I was sick of feeling alone, and I wanted to talk to someone other than my friends about how I was feeling. This difficulty I had in sharing what I was going through with my family, exacerbated by the fear of rejection, highlights a major barrier to mental health support that is tragically common across many underserved communities. I want to share my story to highlight how important it is to feel safe being open about mental health challenges, particularly within spaces where it hasn’t always been encouraged. Throughout my upbringing in a Hispanic household, I witnessed firsthand how stigma, cultural norms, or the expectation that we need to "be strong" may lead mental health to be disregarded or ignored. This collective silence is a public health crisis that demands immediate attention. You never really know what someone might be going through, and the serious mental health challenges they might be navigating in silence. And no one deserves to go through their mental health journey alone. We have to overcome these harmful biases and the antiquated norms that keep so many of us silent. By actively challenging this stigma and making discussions about mental health more commonplace, we can create a supportive and empathetic society where people can open up about their difficulties without feeling ashamed. The key takeaway from my journey is that seeking help is an act of strength, not shame. We must do what my father did: actively break the cycle and choose a path different from the one we grew up with. Everyone deserves to be met with acceptance and compassion, rather than judgment, if we are to see real progress for both the present and future generations.

October 11, 2025 — “Haha, isn’t that weird? I would never kiss a girl!” my middle school friend exclaimed after telling me about her friend who came out as lesbian. Silence was my answer as I thought to myself, “Kissing another girl? Hm... I wouldn't mind that actually.” Going to a private Christian school and being conditioned into thinking that same-sex relationships were “morally offensive”, I held these thoughts inside and never acted on them. My sheltered upbringing was shattered once I later met “real-life lesbians”. Talking with them broadened my perspective and opened a new path in my journey of self-discovery. Your First "Aha!" Moment Doesn’t Need to be Your Final Answer I began exploring my sexuality and proclaiming to my coworkers, "I am a lesbian!” Then I got a boyfriend and said, “Well... I’m just bisexual.” A few months later, “We broke up, and I am definitely a lesbian.” “So, you know how I said I was lesbian? Well, actually..." The cycle continued and the shame built. Why don’t I have figured out? (because surely a 16-year old would have their identity fully realized by then… right?). To me and my peers, “coming out” = “having it figured out” and I was nowhere close to meeting that social expectation; a shackling mentality. Lesson #1: An initial declaration of identity is a point on a map, not the final destination. Give yourself — and others — the grace to revise as you continue on the journey of finding yourself. The willingness to change your mind is a sign of growth and honest introspection, not failure. Authentic Self-Expression Precedes Self-Acceptance I shoved my shame deep within me, hoping to cover the cracks and bury it beyond where the light could shine. Despite that internal struggle, I began to act authentically. I cut my hair short and embraced more masculine clothes. I attended pride events and consumed LGBTQ+ media (seeing trans actors in the TV show Pose was transformative).  As I began meeting new people, watching compelling stories on TV, and learning new ways to articulate my experience, the light broke through and I had a revelation.While I was acting with self-acceptance, I had not internalized it. I realized I didn't even accept myself, period. Deep inside, I was a wounded child whose sense of self was bound by many layers of shame. I shed the desperate need to label and hesitantly embraced a new mantra: I love who I love, and I am who I am. Lesson #2: True self-acceptance is an internal job. The most immediate thing you can do to start the process is to act authentically — even if you haven't named or rationalized why you're doing it. By stepping into those small acts of authentic expression (like the clothes and haircut), you create evidence for your mind that a different, truer self is possible. Start by doing what feels right, and the understanding of yourself will eventually catch up. Embrace the Evolution, Not the Conclusion Time passed, and I began college and therapy. My identity felt unstable, and a new crack appeared: my body felt foreign. I had to ask myself big questions. Who was I outside of the hyperfeminity I was conditioned into? Where did the “butch queer woman” end and the “I’m just a little guy” begin? I entertained the idea of trans-masculinity and adorned He/Him pronouns for the first time. It felt... liberating. I began to wear He/Him pins around campus, I changed my pronouns on my social media accounts, and I eventually started taking testosterone. Outside of intimate conversations I had with loved ones, I did not feel led to make any public declarations of my gender identity. This time, I approached coming out differently from my past experiences of the back-and-forth proclamations. For those that asked, I shared and to those that knew, knew. It was through this that I came to a critical realization: understanding yourself is a continuous practice. Those many layers and cracks I shamed myself for became fractals for the light to shine through. I embraced their hues and released the pressure to have myself "figured out". Through this, my inner child was freed to authentically be himself and the shackles that bound me fell to my feet. Lesson #3: Coming out is an ongoing process. Release the pressure to have yourself "figured out." Instead, find joy and strength in the ambiguity. Embrace the profound beauty of this continuous, often messy, journey of self-discovery. I am a gender nonconforming queer being and I am proud of who I am. Of course I still struggle with my self-image and, fortunately, I am still figuring myself out. But as I take this time to recognize National Coming Out Day, I celebrate my journey and hope today you’re able to embrace yours too.

October 10, 2025 — October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a day to raise awareness and keep the conversation about mental health moving forward. For young people especially, this day is a reminder that mental health isn’t a side topic; it’s essential to our overall well-being, now and in the future. Adolescence and early adulthood are full of change: switching schools, leaving home, starting college, or getting a new job. These milestones can be exciting but also bring significant stress, uncertainty, and pressure. At the same time, the constant presence of social media and online life can create even more mental strain. Being connected 24/7 can make it hard to unplug, and harder still to feel grounded. Thankfully, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of helping young people build mental resilience. Active Minds aims to provide youth and young adults with the tools and skills needed to manage life’s ups and downs. Research shows that when we invest in mental health early, the impact goes far beyond just the individual. Mentally healthy young adults are more able to thrive in school, contribute to their communities, and show up fully in their lives. Prevention starts with awareness. Recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles can lead to faster support, better outcomes, and a stronger sense of connection. Parents, teachers, health workers, and peers all play a role. From teaching everyday coping skills to offering support in schools and communities, there are so many ways we can build environments where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. If you’re wondering where to start, Active Minds is a great place to turn. We are leading the way in changing the conversation around mental health for young adults, with impactful, accessible programs available in communities across the country. Whether you want to learn more, get involved, or create change in your own space, here’s what Active Minds offers: so many programs. Like Active Minds Speakers, which features trained speakers who share powerful, personal stories that open up important conversations and help break down stigma. Or Send Silence Packing, a traveling exhibit that displays backpacks representing the lives lost to suicide. Each of these one-of-a-kind experiences invites communities to learn and take action. This World Mental Health Day, learn something new about mental health and advocate for change in your community. You don’t have to have all the answers, but you do have the power to make a difference, for yourself and for others

October 2, 2025 — At the beginning of the Fall 2025 semester, uncertainty and fear left me in a state of worry. This fear was not just for my own well-being, but also for that of my family. The thought of being taken away to my birthplace — a place I don't know, where I couldn’t identify a single street or landmark — really worried me. As a college senior, my education and future hung in the balance. Doubt for the future invaded me; I feared I wouldn't be able to finish and earn my bachelor's degree. But despite my worries, I kept my head held high. My anchor was my faith in God. I truly believed He would guide my family and me through each day. My final semester was unlike any other. News of police actions and families being taken into immigration custody made it hard to leave the dorm for classes, my internship, or even to enjoy a moment of peace. To avoid putting my family in danger, we didn’t visit each other. It wasn’t worth the risk. I tried to take care of myself during this time, but it was so hard with the fear of what was happening right outside my door. I was trying to stay aware of the immigration crackdowns to keep my family safe, but it got to the point where the terrible things I was seeing were affecting my mental well-being. That’s when I knew I had to find a different way to cope with all the stress. I want to share how I learned to take care of myself, even when everything feels overwhelming. Stop Doomscrolling I was using social media to stay updated with ongoing news, which helps keep me and my family safe. But it got to the point where it was too much negativity, and it started to affect my mental health. Something that helped my mental state was to cut back my time on social media. It took someone close to me reminding me that the things I kept seeing were keeping me from living my daily life in peace. I had to set a goal to reduce what I saw online. I understand that we use social media to stay aware of breaking news for our security and the security of our loved ones. However, caring for one’s mental state is especially important for one's well-being. Even if you can’t unplug completely, you can start by setting a daily time limit on the social media apps that cause you the most stress. Find Peace Through Journaling With everything I was experiencing, I decided to take on a new hobby to help me process and relax— junk journaling. For me, junk journaling was a creative way to use old papers and everyday things to journal about my day-to-day life. It was a routine that gave me an escape from all the scary news. Doing so kept me away from all that was going on with immigration and the deportations of families. It gave my mind some peace and a place to evolve my creativity. Taking a break from it all improved my quality of life. It was great to put my energy into something new, productive, and fun. Try picking up a new hobby to find your peace today — like drawing, crafting, or meditation. Give it a try for 15 minutes. Find Gratitude for the Present Life lately has reminded me that there are things out of my control that I cannot change. I’ve learned to be okay with letting go and focusing on the present. You have to look at the good things: the people in your life, like family, friends, and mentors. The little things truly matter. Even with the police nearby, I still managed to get to my internship. I gave myself space to feel my emotions and trust that everything would be okay, with God's will. With the support of my community and family, it wasn't easy, but I made it through. Your circumstances might be outside of your control, but how you navigate them is up to you. Right now, take a deep breath and remind yourself of three good things you have in your life that you can be grateful for. My mentor once told me everybody has their own story. I know my story because I’ve lived it. I use my voice, and ultimately, that is my greatest power. And despite all the uncertainty and risk, nobody can take that away from me. So remember, you all have a voice, so use it wisely. And do not let anybody try to take that away from you, because they can’t. If you’re seeing the impact of the current climate and want to take action, I want you to know that there are ways to support the immigrant community. If you want to support, consider organizations working in your local community. There are many ways to help — donate and share information with your classmates, and find ways to show up for those in your life who are affected. It can even be as simple as checking in on your friends and neighbors and asking how you can support them.

September 29, 2025 — September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting mental health support, especially among students who may be navigating the pressures of school, friendships, and personal challenges. For many young people, life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it’s essential to remember that struggling is not a sign of weakness. This month presents an opportunity not only to reflect on the importance of mental health but also to take active steps toward supporting ourselves and one another — steps that should continue long after the month of September ends. One of the most powerful ways to prevent suicide is through connection. A simple, genuine check-in can go a long way. Asking a friend, “You good?” — and truly meaning it — can open the door to a conversation that someone might not have known how to start. In an era when we’re all expected to maintain appearances, being vulnerable and listening without judgment can make all the difference. We must normalize checking in, acknowledge when we're not okay, and find ways to reach out for help when things feel overwhelming. Another crucial step is knowing where to turn when support is needed. Resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741), and The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ youth (1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678) are available 24/7 and completely confidential. These services offer trained counselors who are there to help anyone in crisis or simply needing someone to talk to. It’s also important for students to know that their school counselors, wellness centers, and mental health organizations on campus are safe places to seek help. For those looking to be more proactive in supporting friends, the A.S.K. platform is a valuable tool. A.S.K. stands for Acknowledge, Support, and Keep-in-Touch. A.S.K. empowers students to have genuine conversations with their peers and provides them with the confidence to ask tough questions. Whether you’re worried about someone or want to be prepared to support a friend in the future, the A.S.K. digital experience offers practical guidance to help you recognize warning signs and respond with care. Explore the program and access resources on our website. It’s also essential to remember that while supporting others is incredibly meaningful, taking care of yourself is just as important. No one can pour from an empty cup. Burnout is a real concern, especially among students who often serve as the “strong friend” in their circle. Rest, boundaries, and self-compassion are not optional. If you’re struggling, you deserve support too. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, let’s commit to creating a culture of care on our campuses and in our communities. Let’s be the friends who ask the tough questions, who stay present, and who understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of strength. Everyone deserves to feel seen, supported, and safe. The conversation around mental health doesn’t end in September; it starts here and continues every day.

September 26, 2025 — Content Warning: This piece contains mentions of suicide. Mental health advocacy isn’t just something I do — it’s who I am. My journey began long before I found Active Minds, back when I was seven years old and lost my babysitter to suicide. That moment made me a suicide survivor before I could even understand the weight of what had happened. As I grew older, I not only understood the gravity of suicidal ideation, but also experienced it myself. Growing up queer and neurodivergent in a conservative household shaped by Mexican and Middle Eastern traditions, I faced mental illness in an environment where silence and stigma often replaced the support I needed. Being the eldest sibling also came with its own responsibilities. I wanted better for my younger sisters: more understanding, more resources, and more compassion than I had. Keeping them at the forefront of my priorities, I began advocating for mental health support at home. That commitment to making a safer environment for my family planted the seed for a wider mission to cultivate inclusive spaces of care wherever I went. That seed found ground when I joined UCLA’s Active Minds chapter. For the first time, I had the infrastructure to take what had always been personal and make it collective. Active Minds gave me more than a platform — it gave me a community. My story no longer felt like a burden. Instead, it became a bridge, connecting me to others who needed to hear, “You matter here.” As Advocacy Director in my chapter and a pioneer in other mental health spaces on campus, I launched projects that spoke to students who are often overlooked. I organized a Neurodivergent Resource Hub and Awareness Week, hosted queer movie nights, created campus-wide surveys on access to mental health resources, and co-led annual conferences that explored how mental health intersects with culture, art, and basic needs. I also worked alongside Residential Life, external partners, and other student organizations to shift how our campus viewed mental health, especially for minority students. Each project reminded me that stories like mine — shaped by resilience, difference, and survival — are not only valid but essential to creating change. When I stepped into the role of Executive Director, my purpose in Active Minds deepened. Suddenly, I was overseeing all of our chapter’s committees: education, workshops, advocacy, outreach, marketing, radio, membership, finance, corporate relations, logistics, and interns. It was overwhelming at times, but it also showed me just how much impact we could have when we worked together. At the heart of it all was the same mission: cultivating safe, inclusive spaces where every student feels seen and supported. Our chapter intentionally opens its doors to everyone, whether they are queer, students of color, neurodivergent, or anyone who has ever felt like they were carrying their story alone. So why am I staying involved? Because I know the difference it makes. Active Minds gave me the structure to turn my lived experience into meaningful action, and I want others to have that same opportunity. I’ve seen the relief in students’ eyes when they realize they are not alone. I’ve seen them share their stories for the first time, find support, and begin to believe that change is possible. Those moments remind me why this work matters. Advocacy isn’t always easy. It means challenging the perpetuating stigma that lingers in families, communities, and institutions. It means demanding policies and practices that prioritize mental health. But every step forward — every event, every conversation, every new initiative — is proof that we can build something better than the silence many of us grew up with. I stay with Active Minds because my journey has never been just my own. It belongs to the communities I serve: my siblings, my peers, queer students, students of color, first-generation students, and neurodivergent students who deserve to thrive in spaces where mental health is valued, not hidden. Continuing this work means carrying forward the lessons of my past while helping to create a safer present for others. My story may have started in silence and grief, but through Active Minds, it has become one of connection, advocacy, and hope. And that’s why I’ll keep going.

September 24, 2025 — Content Warning: This piece contains mentions of suicide. As a former Division 1 beach volleyball player, I lived the intense pressure of student-athlete life. But the most defining moments came off the court — losing both my dad and my therapist to suicide. Those personal tragedies became the catalyst for my mission: to break the stigma around mental health and advocate for real change. I founded a group called Breaking Barriers in college, creating space for athletes to talk openly about injury, anxiety, grief, and suicide; topics too often ignored in sports. Now, as a Marriage and Family Therapy graduate student at Pepperdine and a professional in the mental health space, I’m committed to transforming pain into purpose and advocating for systems that genuinely support mental health. We don’t talk enough about how messy mental illness can be. Growing up, I learned the mental health narratives we're exposed to are missing the messiest parts. We only seem to want to talk about mental health when it's easy or inspirational. Online, terms like “trauma” and “boundaries” are thrown around without context. But real healing requires more than that; it demands uncomfortable, honest conversations. I first heard the word “suicide” at six when my dad, who was bipolar, died. For the longest time, it was never talked about. Years later, I learned my therapist had died by suicide while sitting in a high school class. I stayed silent, finishing the lecture like it was any other day. In both my Moroccan and Filipino communities, as well as within sports culture, silence was a sign of strength. I had to unlearn that and find a way to tell my story. Someone dies by suicide every 40 seconds. It’s the second leading cause of death for people under 34. Yet we often only address mental health when it's light, trendy, or palatable. In reality, respecting mental health means creating space to speak, to grieve, and to heal; even when it's hard and uncomfortable. In college, I saw how inaccessible mental health care was for athletes. Free campus resources were overbooked or didn’t fit our schedules. Many feared backlash from coaches for seeking help. I ran an anonymous survey to push for a sports psychologist: 70% of athletes felt neglected, and 83% didn’t trust coaches or staff with their mental health. The data was ignored — until it wasn’t. Months later, a psychologist was hired. Advocacy works. But institutional systems change slowly, and students encounter roadblocks. I started an organization on my campus, Breaking Barriers, where I facilitated weekly discussions on mental health topics relevant to our experiences as student athletes. This showed me the power of community in creating change by being vulnerable about our experiences. Mental health support must be unconditional; it’s about showing up for each other and creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. We need more unconditional empathy, not to drain ourselves, but to create a safe space for those who need it, even if they’re the ones who always seem to be smiling. Leaning on others is crucial, and if someone doesn’t support you, they’re not your people. In college, I made it my mission to be the friend and teammate I didn’t always have. I was determined to advocate, listen, and be a reliable person to turn to. Real friends have uncomfortable conversations, check in, and truly listen. Today, as a graduate student and professional in the mental health space, I lean into this value of community care in ALL areas of my life. Mental health resources must prioritize the whole person. Our brains, emotional health, and identities must be protected. Sports will end one day. School will end one day. But we will always live inside our own minds. That space should be treated as the priority it is. I’m not a product of my pain, but of my persistence. My story doesn’t define me — how I rebuild does. Advocacy starts locally, by calling out what’s broken and building what’s missing. Together, we can create systems where no one has to suffer in silence. Let’s stop talking about mental health and start building a world that actually supports it.

September 19, 2025 — We’re thrilled to introduce you to the newest members of the Active Minds Student Advisory Committee (SAC). These young adults are leaders in the mental health movement, and through their role in the SAC, they represent thousands of students to ensure their voices are represented on a national scale. The SAC plays a key role in shaping Active Minds’ programs and initiatives, from national conferences to local chapter engagement. This year’s SAC cohort is a diverse group of passionate young adults, each bringing a unique background and perspective to their advocacy work. We can't wait to see the projects they’ll lead and the change they’ll create. Now, let's get to know the new members of the 2025-2026 Student Advisory Committee! Nadira Akilo University of Texas at Austin Nadira (she/her) is a Biology major on the pre-med track at the University of Texas at Austin. She grew up in a rural East Texas town where mental health was often dismissed. As someone with both African American and Asian heritage, she also experienced cultural stigmas around mental health in both communities. These experiences shaped her strong passion for mental health advocacy. She was first introduced to Active Minds through the Mental Health Advocacy and Leadership Academy, where she gained valuable tools for engaging in thoughtful conversations around mental well-being. As a member of the Student Advisory Committee, Nadira is excited to be part of a community working to create meaningful change. She hopes to be a voice of vulnerability and representation for minority communities while making mental health discussions more accessible through pop culture. Outside of Active Minds, Nadira is deeply interested in psychiatric research and is actively involved in student government. In her free time, she loves trying new foods and spending quality time with her family and friends. In the future, she plans to pursue a career in medicine and hopes to become either a psychiatrist or a surgeon. Varsha Penumalee Virginia Commonwealth University Varsha (she/her) is a student at Virginia Commonwealth University, majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry, Spanish, and Pre-medicine. She is deeply passionate about the intersections of health, advocacy, and community empowerment. On campus, she serves as Co-President of Active Minds at VCU. Off campus, she is also the President of the Youth MOVE Virginia/NAMI Virginia Youth Advisory Board, a youth-led mental health advocacy organization that works to expand outreach, peer support, and educational initiatives for young adults. She now serves on the Youth MOVE National Board of Directors, where she helps guide youth-driven mental health advocacy on a national scale. Varsha's academic and professional interests center on medicine and public health. She is committed to addressing health inequities and improving care for underserved populations. In her free time, she enjoys reading new books, cycling, and spending time with friends and family. Marissa Smith Rider University Marissa (she/her) is a junior Psychology major with a Criminal Justice minor. Her hobbies include photography, watching movies and TV shows, and reading. She is passionate about all mental health issues but specifically suicide awareness. She serves as an ambassador for the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) for New Jersey, as well as a mentor for the Gail Biernbaum Leadership Council and the Psychology Learning Community. Angel Velazquez Lake Tahoe Community College Angel (he/him) is a student at Lake Tahoe Community College, studying Mathematics and Physics with the goal of transferring into Aerospace Engineering. At LTCC, he serves as a Student Senator, Food Pantry Lead, and Basic Needs Mentor, where he works directly with students to improve access to food, resources, and mental health support. His interest in mental health advocacy grew from his experiences as a first-generation Latino student balancing academics, leadership, and family responsibilities. He is focused on reducing stigma while making resources more visible and accessible to all students. Outside of campus leadership, Angel loves to travel and is focused on aviation and engineering projects, including flight performance modeling, robotics, and training toward his private pilot license. Vashti Trujillo Colorado State University Pueblo Vashti (she/her) is a student leader and advocate from Pueblo, Colorado, dedicated to advancing mental health awareness, equity, and youth voice. She serves as Vice President of the Associated Students’ Government at Colorado State University Pueblo and is actively engaged in statewide initiatives that elevate student and community perspectives in policymaking. With experience as a policy advocate, organizer, and researcher, Vashti has worked with groups like Common Cause, Young Invincibles, and New Era Colorado to promote accessible mental health resources, youth empowerment, and systemic equity. She has spoken on state and national platforms, including Aspen Institute events and the White House Youth Policy Summit, uplifting stories of young women, first-generation students, and communities of color. She aspires to continue blending advocacy, research, and education to ensure mental health is prioritized in schools and communities. Faria Tavacoli University of Nevada, Las Vegas Faria (she/they/ella) is a student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, majoring in Public Health and Neuroscience. She is a health worker, mental health advocate, and survivor who leads youth-driven initiatives that bridge service and social justice. She is currently one of the Active Minds Student Directors of her chapter and loves creating activities and spaces for students, providing them with mental health educational resources, and encouraging them to seek help. Faria joined the Student Advisory Council to expand her advocacy on a national scale, support chapters with empowerment and growth, and connect with other student leaders dedicated to transforming mental health culture. Drawing on her lived experiences and survivorship, she champions intersectional approaches to mental health equity. Faria hopes to continue building youth-led systems of care that center resilience, dignity, and justice. In her free time, Faria enjoys skateboarding, book collecting, and choreographing dances.

September 17, 2025 — We are thrilled to introduce our first Chapter of the Month for the new school year, Athens State University! This chapter’s unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy was recently celebrated with the Active Minds Chapter of the Year Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes the dedication they put into showing up for campus events, spreading awareness about mental health, and advocating for students. This small but mighty group has proven that passion can create real change, not only on their campus but also by partnering with the local community. Want to know more about this outstanding chapter? Read our Q&A with the Athens State University chapter to learn more about this dedicated chapter's work. Tell us about your school & chapter. The Athens State University Chapter of Active Minds may be small in numbers, but we make a big impact on campus and in our community. Our chapter goals are to increase students’ awareness of mental health issues, provide information and resources, encourage students to seek help as soon as it is needed, and serve as a liaison between students and the mental health community. We are open to all students and strive to create a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their mental well-being and support their peers. Why is mental health important to your chapter and school? Mental health is important to our chapter and school because it directly impacts student success, personal growth, and overall well-being. When students are mentally healthy, they are better able to manage stress, stay engaged in their studies, and contribute positively to campus life. Our chapter recognizes that mental health challenges, if left unaddressed, can create barriers to academic achievement, leadership development, and community involvement. By prioritizing mental health, we help create a supportive environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to seek help when needed. This not only strengthens our chapter but also contributes to a healthier, more compassionate school community. What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining or starting a chapter? “Don’t be afraid and worried about what others might think, just take the first step and join. Starting or joining Athens State’s Active Minds chapter isn’t about perfection; it’s about passion and commitment to supporting others. Focus on building a community where self-care, empathy, and mental health awareness are prioritized. Even small efforts, like hosting a discussion or checking in with peers, can make a big difference. Remember, you are not in it alone; you can lean on members, campus resources, and the larger network for support.” Are you planning anything you're excited about? How is that going, and what have you learned? We are very excited about several upcoming initiatives this year. Active Minds is partnering with the Student Wellness and Accessibility Office and Disability Resources Network to promote our ‘Beat the Test’ webinar, designed to help students manage test anxiety, improve test-taking strategies, and develop effective study skills on September 25th. We’re also looking forward to our Fall Meet & Greet, which gives students a chance to connect, learn about mental health resources, and get involved with our chapter. Another highlight is our 2026 Mental Health Summit. Each year, we aim to bring something new to the event. This year, we will host a panel discussion on ‘All Things Mental Health,’ featuring the Honorable Judge Sybil Cleveland, who serves as a municipal court judge in Huntsville, as one of our guest panelists. Additionally, we’re excited about the variety of mental health topics offered in our breakout sessions, which will provide students with practical tools and strategies to support their well-being. Through these events, we’ve learned the importance of collaboration, planning ahead, and listening to students’ needs, which ensures our programming is both relevant and impactful. What’s a small action everyone can take today to support mental health on campus? A small action everyone can take today is simply checking in with a friend or classmate. Asking ‘How are you doing?’ and really listening can make a big difference. Showing empathy, offering support, or sharing mental health resources creates a culture of care and reminds others that they are not alone.

September 15, 2025 — Each year from September 15 to October 15, we honor Hispanic Heritage Month. It's a time to recognize the rich cultures and vital contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities across the United States. At the heart of these communities lie storytelling and community care: practices that not only preserve culture and identity but also nurture mental health and well‑being. Here are some nonprofit organizations doing essential work at the intersection of mental health, culture, and community: Latinx Therapy is dedicated to enhancing access to culturally responsive care and bilingual mental health services. The Trevor Project offers Spanish-language services, support for LGBTQ+ youth, crisis intervention, and community building. Raíces Texas serves immigrant communities, providing legal and mental health advocacy and supporting families during challenging times. Mijente centers Latinx and Chicanx organizing and collective power, including the voices of those who have been historically marginalized in mainstream mental health spaces. Reading is another powerful way to connect, heal, and grow. These books by Hispanic and Latine authors bring stories that reflect cultural nuance, hope, and resilience: The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros A classic coming‑of‑age story about identity and finding one’s voice. Crying in the Bathroom by Erika L. Sánchez A contemporary set of essays exploring mental health and vulnerability. Children of the Land by Marcelo Hernández Castillo A memoir that weaves together immigration, memory, family bonds, and life between borders. We encourage you this month to support Hispanic and Latine‑led nonprofits, attend local cultural or mental health events, and share stories from your own community! We want to hear from you. Storytelling has always been a powerful force in Hispanic and Latine cultures — and your story matters. If you have a personal experience, family tradition, or reflection that speaks to identity, mental health, or cultural resilience, we invite you to share it with us. Your voice and unique perspective could inspire others! 📣 Interested in contributing your story for Hispanic Heritage Month? Send us a message and we’ll follow up with details on how to be featured.