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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.

September 12, 2025 — When I ran my chapter’s first meeting, I was an anxious wreck. I didn’t know how to run a meeting “properly” and was afraid of failure and judgment from my peers. I had decided to start an Active Minds chapter because I saw a need at my school for a dedicated space where students could feel supported, connect with others, and learn about mental health without judgment. As president, I felt the pressure of making sure my Active Minds chapter was the mental health space we had all been craving; I scattered around the classroom, in an attempt to make sure everything was perfect. It wasn’t until I settled down and took a deep breath that I realized my goal wasn’t to be perfect; it was to provide a space for my peers to feel as if they belonged and talk with them about the importance of mental health. I knew that if the chapter was going to be a supportive mental health space, the first meeting needed to set the right tone. I felt that focusing on appreciation would be a perfect first topic because of how it impacts our relationships and the way we view life. Before I began the meeting, I wanted to ensure that the people who attended not only felt welcomed, but as if they could come back if needed. To create a welcoming space, I baked and brought in one of my specialties, a tres leches cake, and made sure everyone had a slice. It was a hit! My vice president and I then introduced ourselves and used a slideshow to talk about the relevance of appreciation for mental health. After our icebreakers, which were a bit awkward as icebreakers usually are, it was time for our activity: writing appreciation letters! We set up a table of materials for people to make notes of appreciation for the supportive people in their lives; it was full of card templates, markers, and colored pencils. It was sweet to see that many of our members wrote cards dedicated to their friends who came to the meeting with them. While they were writing their cards, I went up to everyone, introduced myself personally, and started a conversation. This was an important step for me. I remember attending club meetings alone and feeling unwelcome, which discouraged me from returning. I wanted to make sure no one else felt that way. My goal was to form genuine relationships with our members and foster a sense of belonging for everyone. After my first chapter meeting, I was joyful, smiling from ear to ear. It went exactly the way I had hoped and gave me the confidence and reassurance I needed to continue leading that space. What I loved most about that first meeting was hearing how positively our chapter members received it. Knowing that people enjoyed the space I created for them warmed my heart and made me excited for the next meetings. I'm grateful for the encouragement my vice president and I received from our members. The most rewarding part was realizing that the support flowed both ways; our members were there for us just as much as we were there for them. We were building a COMMUNITY. Seeing familiar faces in our following meetings and realizing that we had regulars was one of the most rewarding feelings ever, and feeling that belonging is a highlight of every single meeting. Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? If you're inspired by the idea of creating a welcoming and supportive community in your school, consider starting an Active Minds chapter. You have the power to make a real difference and help normalize conversations about mental health. Learn more about how to get started by visiting our website or checking out our recent blog post from the chapter team on how to start a chapter!

September 8, 2025 — On September 8th, known nationally as 988 Day, students and communities across the country are invited to reflect on the importance of mental health and the role of crisis support services in saving lives. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a transformative step forward: a simple, three-digit number that provides immediate, 24/7 access to trained counselors for anyone in emotional distress or mental health crisis. It is free, confidential, and accessible to everyone, especially youth and students who are increasingly vulnerable to mental health challenges. The pressures facing students today are more intense than ever. Academic demands, social isolation, and a rapidly changing world have contributed to a growing mental health crisis among young people. According to national data, rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among students continue to rise. The availability of 988 is an essential tool, but awareness is just the beginning. We must also demand broader cultural and systemic shifts in how mental health is discussed, addressed, and supported, especially in educational settings. Behind 988 lies a powerful movement to reimagine our country’s mental health care system. But for it to work, we need more than a number; we need policy change. Federal and state funding must be increased to support the infrastructure behind 988, including hiring and training culturally competent responders, improving coordination with local health services, and ensuring equitable access in all communities. Without these investments, 988 risks becoming a symbolic gesture rather than a functional safety net. Students play a critical role in this conversation by using their voices to advocate for mental health policies at both the campus and legislative levels. One impactful way for students to get involved in mental health advocacy is through Active Minds, the largest nonprofit in the United States mobilizing youth and young adults to transform mental health norms across society. Here’s what you can do today: Save 988 in your contacts. You never know when you or a friend might need it. Follow Active Minds on Instagram or TikTok for relatable content, mental health tips, and how to get involved. Start or join a chapter at your school to make real change. These chapters provide safe spaces for dialogue, offer resources for those in need, and offer opportunities to take action on the issues that affect us most. Visit our website to locate one on your campus or learn how to start one yourself. Speak up for policy. Join campaigns that advocate for mental health funding and systems that actually care. Share the message. Post about 988 Day and let your community know there’s always help available. 988 Day is a call to action. It’s a reminder that every student deserves access to mental health support, that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and that meaningful change begins with awareness, advocacy, and community. This September 8th, let’s commit to building communities where no one struggles alone and where help is always just a phone call away.

August 22, 2025 — In hundreds of colleges and high schools across the country, passionate mental health advocates join together to form Active Minds Chapters. Each chapter is a community, a supportive environment focused on transforming mental health norms on their campus and beyond. Started and led by students like you, Active Minds Chapters are a space to connect with your peers, a national movement, and Active Minds at large. For many, these chapters are a dedicated space to explore mental health advocacy that they’ve been craving. Joining an Active Minds Chapter allows them to get involved in a nationwide movement simply by attending a meeting, or two, or even more. But what if your school doesn't have a chapter? Well, that’s where YOU come in. If you and your community work together, your school can be the next to join the Active Minds Chapter Network. Starting a new Active Minds Chapter is an easy process and a great opportunity for you to make a huge impact. You'll cultivate a sense of belonging while becoming a mental health changemaker in your community. Not sure where to begin? It might sound like a big undertaking, but starting a chapter is simpler than you think. And we're here to help! Check out our tips for starting an Active Minds Chapter. Connect with your peers It doesn't matter if you're already talking about mental health with your friends or not. Simply connecting with friends and classmates is your first move. Tap into your community to see if you can get your social circle to transform their interest in mental health and wellness into mobilizing with Active Minds. Chat with peers who might already have an interest in prioritizing mental health; maybe they’re taking AP psych or involved in a mental health or community advocacy club. Even if you're a graduating senior, you can help lay the groundwork for the next generation of students. Help them find an advisor, recruit other students, and figure out how to register as an official organization. You'll be leaving your school better than you found it. Explore what you need with your school Every college campus is different. Doing a little homework about what your next step should be will allow you to make the most of your efforts. To officially start a club, you'll have to follow your school's rules. The best first move is finding out who is in charge of student-led organizations at your school. Ask them what you might need to get the club going, such as how many members you need or who you should look for in an advisor. They can also tell you if there are other mental health groups on campus. That way, you can figure out if you want to team up with them or how your club can be unique. Check in with the Active Minds team You've already done the groundwork of getting your peers on board and figuring out what your school needs. Now it’s time to meet Active Minds' requirements and explore how our team can support your work of mobilizing your community. To start your chapter, Active Minds requires at least three students and one advisor. To help ensure the chapter's sustainability, at least one of the three student leaders cannot be a graduating senior. Your advisor can be any full-time staff member at your school, such as a teacher, professor, or counselor. Our team recommends finding an advisor with a mental health background, but that is not required. Once you have your team, you'll complete the Active Minds Chapter Registration Form. After you're officially registered, you'll get access to our national programs and materials, which you can adapt to fit your school’s specific needs. You might want to organize a tabling event to hand out resources, invite a speaker to campus, or host a community engagement event. There are three main ways our chapters change the conversation about mental health at their schools: Implement mental health programming Participate in partnerships Advocacy and mobilization opportunities What if you need more support? The Chapters Team is here for you! We work full-time to support chapters (and future chapters) like yours in their mental health advocacy efforts. We can help with anything, from recruiting new members and brainstorming program ideas to ensuring a smooth leadership transition. Please don't ever hesitate to reach out for guidance, advice, or ideas. Explore our chapter FAQ page or reach us at chapters@activeminds.org.

August 13, 2025 — The Fall 2025 tour for Send Silence Packing is kicking off, bringing a vital message of mental health and suicide awareness to communities across the country. Following a successful Spring 2025 tour that reached 18 schools, the SSP team is hitting the road again to bring conversation and resources around suicide prevention to communities everywhere. What is Send Silence Packing? It's an immersive and powerful display featuring one hundred backpacks, each representing a life lost to suicide. The exhibit is a direct link to mental health professionals and support systems, creating an approachable space for discussing suicide and mental health. From hundreds of stories of hope and loss, to a hope wall where visitors can write positive messages of support and encouragement for everyone to see, Send Silence Packing allows for conversations around suicide prevention and mental health to take center stage. When Send Silence Packing visits a school or community, it’s done hand-in-hand with local community organizations and mental health professionals to inform visitors of crucial local resources for mental health. Any Send Silence Packing event always features national resources and has mental health professionals on-site to provide immediate support and ensure that anyone who is emotionally triggered by the content is properly cared for. It’s More Than an Exhibit, It’s a Lifeline Send Silence Packing is a catalyst for change; the exhibit creates an approachable space for discussing mental health. While the role mental health and suicide may play in someone’s life may vary, mental health challenges are a reality everyone faces at one point in their lives. That reality is clear when people come up and share their experiences with mental health. Visitors often disclose their own struggles, find similarities in the stories on display, or even share positive stories of overcoming their challenges. I often think of a specific moment during an exhibit at a school in Florida. A student came up to the resource table and casually remarked, "I'm having suicidal thoughts and I plan on ending my life later today." While it’s not uncommon for visitors to make remarks that they’re struggling with their mental health, there is no way to ever be fully prepared to hear a statement like that. Here's where the presence of Send Silence Packing made all the difference. The infrastructure we had in place, including an on-site mental health professional, allowed us to immediately connect that student with the resources they needed. This intervention was only possible because SSP was there that day. It makes you wonder: What would have happened if we hadn't been on campus? Would that student still be alive today? In a rural Kansas county of just over 4,000 residents, the pain of six suicide deaths in the previous year,  three of which were youth, was palpable. Our SSP exhibit, set up at the county fairgrounds, drew around 600 community members — a massive chunk of the local population. We found that nearly every person who came had been personally affected, sharing stories of someone they lost to suicide or how they almost lost themselves to it. When the county’s high schoolers started coming in by the busloads, there was a massive shift in the dynamics. We witnessed a powerful outpouring of emotion as teenagers burst into tears, finding comfort and solace in their friends. Many felt they couldn't reach out to adults for help, fearing the stigma associated with mental health struggles. That day a wound was reopened, but SSP brought along the resources and dialogue necessary for the community to start healing. Bring the Movement to Your Community Hosting the Send Silence Packing exhibit is a powerful step toward creating an open dialogue about mental health. While it serves as a proper introduction to addressing stigma, we believe it should be the start, not the end, of your community's commitment to awareness. To learn more about bringing Send Silence Packing to your school or community, please review our Interest Guide or contact us directly at sendsilencepacking@activeminds.org. Take the first step. Bring Send Silence Packing to your community and begin a lasting movement for change.

August 11, 2025 — As the sun sets on summer 2025, we're taking a moment to celebrate the incredible group of interns who spent their season with us. They've tackled challenges, shared their talents, and brought a wonderful energy to our team. As they prepare to transition into their fall routines, we're giving them a final moment in the spotlight. Dive in with us to read their thoughtful responses. Ally Phan Marketing & Digital Media She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I am currently attending the University of Washington, where I am majoring in Business and Education Policy. How do you plan to prioritize your own mental well-being as you transition into your fall routine, whether it's school, work, or both? Something that I want to prioritize as we head into the fall, is taking time to be offline. As a busy person, it's easy to treat a social media scroll at the end of a long day as "rest", however, nothing about doomscrolling and passive tech consumption is restful. Instead, being intentional about when and where I am using my phone, for instance, not scrolling when I'm eating breakfast or brushing my teeth, will be key to my mental well-being!! Before summer slips away, what's a special experience you've already had (or what's still a must-do on your list)? Given that I live in the Pacific Northwest, somehow, I have not had the chance to go on a proper hike so that is definitely a must-do on my bucket list. I'm definitely excited to hike Mt. Rainier again with my friend (a tradition we started last summer) and I'm looking forward to seeing the Lumineers in concert later this August! What is your favorite food? I could list a ton of foods but nothing is better than a bowl of my mom's phở! Chigozie Okuagu Measurement Intern She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I attended Boston University School of Public Health and I studied Epidemiology and Biostatics with a context in mental health and Substance Use How do you plan to prioritize your own mental well-being as you transition into your fall routine, whether it's school, work, or both? I plan on prioritizing my mental well-being as I transition into my fall routine by reminding myself to stay consistent with walking/exercise. For me, when a transition or change comes, especially when school starts, I stop prioritizing exercise and movement because I feel guilty. But recognizing that I don't have to feel guilty for taking 45 minutes to myself and creating non-negotiable activities, such as exercise or reading, throughout my week to take care of my mental well-being, will be how I prioritize my mental health. Imagine a future where mental health is prioritized. What's one impactful change that you'd see? When I envision a future where mental health is prioritized, one impactful change I would see is an increase in community. I think when mental health is not prioritized, people feel obligated to carry their burdens, experiences, and problems alone when that's not how we are made to operate as humans-- which I think contributes to the high rates of social isolation and loneliness despite social media. What are your three favorite things to do for fun? For fun I like to bake, go for walks, and hang out with my friends/siblings Ginger McFadden Workforce Development She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I currently attend VCU in the MSW program with a clinical concentration and focus in child welfare. Randolph-Macon college is my undergraduate institution and I did a double major in Sociology and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies with an English minor. If you could change one thing about the world (and you had unlimited resources), what would you change? If I could change one thing, it would be to foster more empathy and compassion for our fellow human beings. Although it sounds simple, I believe that leading with empathy and compassion could make a monumental difference in bridging accessibility gaps and navigating life with a mindset that seeks to understand rather than to judge. Everyone has some degree of self-centeredness, but there needs to be a balance between that and caring for others in our communities. In a more tangible way, I would ensure everyone has access to nutritious meals and eliminate food deserts. Access to quality food is essential for success, and hunger and health issues from a lack of access to healthy foods should not exist. If you could meet one famous person, dead or living, who would you most want to meet? I would probably say Malcolm X; however, I feel like I would be very nervous and not able to speak to him properly or really absorb what he is saying, but I would love to attend one of his speeches and hear him speak. Both to be in an environment where everyone has a shared goal, but also to witness it first hand. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you most want to visit? One place I definitely want to visit is Nigeria, because that’s where my partner is from. Eventually, I plan to take him on a tour of all the places I grew up around the Greater Richmond Area, and I’d love for him to do the same. I know it’s something he wants to do as well. Other than that, I haven’t identified a specific travel destination yet. I know I want to travel, but I haven’t taken the time to think deeply about where. I want my travel experiences to be both fun and relaxing, but I’d also like to do service-related work in another country. Bella Andres Operations Intern She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I'm a fall 2025 grad at the University of Delaware studying PR Communications with minors in Legal Studies and Advertising! How do you plan to prioritize your own mental well-being as you transition into your fall routine, whether it's school, work, or both? This summer, I have become much more attentive of my needs and how I can better prioritize my mental health. I have started making time for the gym, getting back into playing the guitar, and setting a strict morning and nighttime routine. Doing these things has helped to regulate my mental health amidst changes in work and scenery (being home for the summer). I am planning on bringing these new routines with me to school and in my post-grad life to help me stay focused on myself as these have become my de-stressors! Imagine a future where mental health is prioritized. What's one impactful change that you'd see? I would hope to see workplaces and schools become forgiving of people needing rest days. For those that struggle with their mental health, sometimes an extra day of rest before jumping back into work is much needed and will allow them to perform at their best. Right now, extra mental health days off are not as normalized as they should be and I hope that in the future, taking a day off once in a while to regulate one's mental health will be the norm. If you could change one thing about the world (and you had unlimited resources), what would you change? I would change the way the world has hate towards one another. Life is too short to hold grudges or hatred towards others, and it promotes an unhealthy way of living. If everyone respected one another, the world would be a much better, happier place. Jada Webb Public Relations Intern She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I study Mass Communication at North Carolina A&T State University. How do you plan to prioritize your own mental well-being as you transition into your fall routine, whether it’s school, work, or both? As I transition into the fall semester, I plan to prioritize my mental well-being by setting intentional boundaries between school, work, and personal time. I will schedule regular check-ins with myself, practice mindfulness through journaling and quiet reflection, and lean into community—whether that is friends, mentors, or support groups. Protecting time for rest, joy, and creative expression will also be key to maintaining balance. Before summer slips away, what’s a special experience you’ve already had (or what’s still a must-do on your list)? One special experience I’ve already had this summer was traveling to Chicago for the first time with my friends. Exploring a new city together, trying new foods, visiting landmarks, and sharing late-night laughs made it such a core memory. Before the summer ends, I still want to carve out time for a weekend trip to relax, recharge, and reflect on all the growth this season has brought. If you could change one thing about the world (and you had unlimited resources), what would you change? With unlimited resources I would make sure everyone alive had a roof over their heads. Not having a place to go creates so many limitations physically and mentally. Niki Sivasankaravel Social Media Intern She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I’m graduating from Purdue University this May with a degree in Psychology. In the fall, I’ll be pursuing a one year master’s program at UChicago Booth (Master in Management). How do you plan to prioritize your own mental well-being as you transition into your fall routine, whether it's school, work, or both? One of the best ways I've learned to prioritize my mental health during the school year and during busy periods of my life is by carving out non-negotiable self-care time! Usually, I like to save my Friday evenings and block out time every week for self-care/any other activities that would boost my mental health. If I can't do it one Friday, then I just move it to a different day, but having 1 day or evening of self-care is something I tell myself not to budge on and to always honor so I don't burn out easily! If you could change one thing about the world (and you had unlimited resources), what would you change? I would change health inequity if I had all the resources in the world! I’ve experienced and seen firsthand the challenges of the healthcare system and its overall affordability and accessibility, so I would want to make healthcare equitable for all if I could. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you most want to visit? I’ve always wanted to visit Portugal and Spain!! The beautiful scenery, architecture and delicious food scene has always made me eager to visit one day. My family and I have a list of dream vacation spots we want to hit in our lifetimes and Spain/Portugal sits pretty high up on that list. Samira Nur Development Operations Intern She/Her What school do/did you attend and what are you studying? I attend Northwestern University, where I’m majoring in Cognitive Science and minoring in Data Science. Imagine a future where mental health is prioritized. What's one impactful change that you'd see? One impactful change would be seeing mental health care treated as a normal part of daily life. Just like going to the doctor, people would feel comfortable talking to mental health professionals without stigma. I also imagine every school and workplace having built in mental health days, with emotional wellbeing seen as a valid reason to pause, reset, and take care of yourself. Before summer slips away, what's a special experience you've already had (or what's still a must-do on your list)? Before summer ends, something still on my list is waking up early and heading to the beach to catch one last sunrise with my camera. What is your favorite food? My favorite food is a Somali dish called Sambusa. It’s a crispy, triangle shaped pastry filled with seasoned beef and veggies. It’s really tasty and full of flavor!