More Than a Hashtag: Mental Health Advocacy Starts After the Social Media Posts

Written and illustrated by Khushi Patel, a Hillside Middle School student, BRITE Youth Advocate Leader, and founder of Mind Matters. Below, Khushi reflects on her advocacy project, sharing why mental health matters to her community, the research she explored, the action she took, and the future impact she plans to do.

In a world where mental health is often pushed away to the sidelines of a discussion, I’ve witnessed firsthand what mental health issues look like in students and individuals within my community. Stress, depression, and anxiety are some of the many symptoms that indicate someone is suffering from bad mental health, and it became clear to me that awareness alone is not enough. This sparked Mind Matters, an advocacy project committed to turning awareness into sustainable action through social media posts, projects, and events.

Every day, I see the anxiety etched on the faces of my peers. Students are not only being weighed down by the pressure of school life, but also by the effect it has on their emotional well-being. A recent survey I conducted shows that 42.9% of individuals in our community manage to squeeze in only seven to eight hours of sleep. How is that possible? Well, assignments, extracurricular activities, and the stress that builds up affect overall mental wellness. While mental health challenges are a global concern, there is also a need for action in our local community.

Recently, I organized a Youth Health and Wellness Conference, creating a safe space for students' voices to be heard and to brainstorm solutions. With the help of professional panelists, we listened to proposals that will help create healthier environments in our schools. Furthermore, partnering with BRITE, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health advocacy, we set up a mental health table at our local library. This booth provided crucial information and support for community members, emphasizing that mental health resources should be accessible to everyone.

But this is just the beginning. I envision a future where schools implement a grade-wide calendar that aligns major tests and projects to minimize stress for students. I want to create a Mental Health Awareness Week that becomes a staple in the school curriculum, offering workshops, discussions, and activities centered around mental well-being. Moreover, I hope to bring wellness centers to schools throughout my community. They don’t necessarily have to be grand facilities; even starting with simple clubs focused on mental health can be a great start. Despite the resources available, like the 988 Crisis Hotline, there are individuals who aren't comfortable with opening up about their struggles. This challenge not only affects schools and communities but also impacts those who witness their loved ones struggling with depression. Advocacy is not just about posting on social media. It’s about connections, providing support, and creating environments where mental health is prioritized.

Follow Mind Matters on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mindd.matters.

To learn more about our BRITE Futures Initiative and to join our Youth Coalition, visit www.briteyouth.org/bfi. To learn more about our BRITE volunteer opportunities, visit www.briteyouth.org/engagementopportunities.