💙mental health awareness month, photo dump PART 2 at 14, i entered the space of mental health advocacy working @ a crisis/suicide hotline, teenline (@teenlineonline) in LA. undergoing intensive psychoeducational training during the formative years of my adolescence prompted me to have a research-informed, science-based & hope-centered approach to pertinent topics around wellness. the misconceptions & misinformation surrounding mental health/suicidality are actively debilitating for those affected: psychoeducation is VITAL for ALL. almost six years later, i remain deeply passionate for crisis mobile outreach & am a crisis/suicide hotline counselor @ didi hirsch suicide prevention center (@didi_hirsch) for the national suicide prevention lifeline, LA 911 diversion hotline, & other lines — it is in one’s most vulnerable moments where they seek help, and their vulnerability = strength. championing our future for mental health progress are incredible nonprofit organizations that engage in grassroots work daily! i’m immensely grateful to have worked with organizations such as @namicommunicate in their community walks, @bringchangetomind w their high school program/advisory board, @afspnational for public policy advocacy & @projectheal to eliminate barriers for eating disorder treatment. PLEASE look into the resources these organizations provide! more may highlights 💙the incredible katie hatzold having a group of my friends donate to didi hirsch! THANK U!!! 💙president biden delaying his flight to spend extra time with us 💙meeting 29 other youth advocates from across the country who have paved the way for national mental health progress 💙weekends in the hotline room @ didi hirsch suicide prevention center 💙not pictured but MOST IMPORTANTLY, weekly therapy sessions. my therapist astounds me with how she epitomizes the power of human connection. hope in our mental health crisis necessitates communal support, where we cannot devalue or invalidate the pressing need for mental health equity. compassion and care are core tenets of this work but must be paired with tangible action! you are so important. self-care is community care, & MENTAL HEALTH IS HEALTH.