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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.

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.