Loss has a way of reshaping not only how we see the world, but also how we choose to move through it. During my freshman year of college, a friend died by suicide, an experience that fundamentally altered my sense of purpose. As co-captains on the basketball team, she taught me how to advocate for others and lead with purpose. Grieving her loss, I simultaneously felt a profound need to aid and prevent others from experiencing similar tragic losses. This became the foundation of my commitment to mental health advocacy.
In the time that followed, I sought out ways to turn that commitment into action. I joined my university’s counseling services outreach program, where I worked to connect students with mental health resources and decrease stigma surrounding mental health. The next year, through the Active Minds Mental Health Advocacy Institute, I expanded my involvement to a broader level, engaging in initiatives that addressed both access and policy.
Through these experiences, I learned that advocacy often begins with small, intentional steps. Mental health is still surrounded by stigma, and many individuals struggle in silence. I came to understand that simply asking someone how they are really doing can be powerful. Creating spaces where people feel seen and heard is not always easy, but it is essential.
One of the most meaningful aspects of my time with the Institute has been updating the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on student mobile IDs, increasing access for 194,000 students. Being part of an initiative that resulted in a tangible, lasting impact showed me that advocacy can extend beyond conversation and into real systemic change.
My work in outreach also revealed how barriers such as lack of awareness, fear of judgment, and limited access to care prevent many students from seeking help. These experiences reinforced my belief that education and accessibility are key components of prevention. At the same time, my involvement in national advocacy efforts highlighted the importance of addressing structural issues, including cost, provider shortages, and cultural stigma.
Advocacy is not a separate part of my life; it has become the lens through which I approach everything I do. It shapes how I interact with others, how I respond to challenges, and how I define meaningful impact. My friend’s legacy continues to guide me, reminding me why this work matters.
If you are considering getting involved in mental health advocacy, start where you are. You do not need to have all the answers to make a difference. What matters is your willingness to listen, to learn, and to act. Your voice has the power to create change. 🩷💚
Apply to this cycle of the Active Minds Mental Health Advocacy Institute by May 25, 2026, for the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year!
