Active Minds Wisdom: Self-Care Strategies for Triggering Mental Health Events

<< Active Minds Blog

Heads up, Active Minds fam! We all know that attending mental health events can be incredibly rewarding. But let’s be honest, sometimes the topics can be triggering. Flashbacks? Anxiety spikes? We’ve all been there. But fear not, because we’re here with a battle plan for self-care to help you navigate those tough moments and ** emerge victorious** from triggering events. ️

Before You Suit Up:

  • Know Your Triggers: Be your own hero! Identify what topics or situations might trigger you at the event. This could be a specific speaker’s story, a panel discussion on a particular mental health condition, or even a certain environment.
  • Craft Your Escape Plan: Having a plan B is key! Decide on a safe space you can retreat to if you need a moment to collect yourself. This could be a quiet hallway, the bathroom, or even stepping outside for some fresh air.
  • Pack Your Emotional Toolkit: Grounding techniques are your secret weapons! Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or even carrying a comforting object can help you manage overwhelming emotions.
  • Buddy Up with a friend: There’s strength in numbers! Let a trusted friend or fellow advocate know about your potential triggers and ask them to be your support system during the event.

Nearly 70% of young people say they want to help their friends, but feel unsure how. That’s why Active Minds teamed up with SHOWTIME/MTV Entertainment Studios  to create a simple framework, A.S.K. Acknowledge, Support, Keep-in-Touch.

  • Acknowledge: Create a supportive space by focusing your attention on the conversation.
  • Support: Let them know you’re there for them. Offer a listening ear without judgment and validate their feelings.
  • Keep-in-Touch: Checking back in regularly shows you care and want to keep building your connection.

A.S.K., the “stop, drop, and roll” of emotional support, is a simple and memorable way to take action and be there for the people you care about.

None of us have all the answers, but your presence and support make a world of difference.

Visit our YouTube and start putting A.S.K into action!

During the Event: Be a Master of Your Domain:

  • Listen to Your Body: Your body is sending you signals – pay attention! If you start to feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to excuse yourself and utilize your safe space.
  • It’s Okay to Say No: You are in control! If a particular session or activity feels triggering, politely excuse yourself and choose something else. You don’t have to push yourself beyond your limits.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Focus on the present moment. Mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or body scans can help you manage emotional responses and stay grounded.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Talk: Need a moment to vent? Let your support buddy know what’s going on. Talking it through can be incredibly helpful.

After the Event: Celebrate Your Victories!

  • Debrief with Your Squad: Talk to your support system about your experience, both positive and negative. Processing your emotions can help you learn and grow.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself! It’s okay if you needed to take breaks or adjust your plans. You showed up and that’s a win!
  • Prioritize Relaxation: After battling triggers, recharge your batteries! Do something relaxing you enjoy, like taking a warm bath, reading a good book, or spending time in nature.

We have Self Care Resources for when you need to take a step back and focus on yourself. Looking for ways to be there for a friend or loved one who may be struggling with their mental health? Visit our Offering Help Page

In crisis and need to talk to someone? Text BRAVE to 741-741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor or calling or texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis (988 Lifeline)  988.

Remember, self-care isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength! By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle triggering situations and continue advocating for mental health awareness.

Ready to join the movement? Click here to register for the 2024 Active Minds Conference and snag your spot at the biggest event for young adult mental health advocacy! Don’t miss out – see you in D.C.! Registration closes on July 25th at 5pm ET.

P.S. Spread the word! Share this post with your friends, family, and anyone who cares about mental health. The more the merrier (and the stronger the movement!)

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

Active Minds Wisdom: Self-Care Strategies for Triggering Mental Health Events

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2024-08-06

2024 Mental Health Conference Wrap-Up: Insights, Innovations, and Inspiration

<< Active Minds Blog

As the curtains close on the 2024 Active Minds Mental Health Conference, we find ourselves reflecting not only on the inspiring conversations and thought-provoking ideas shared over the weekend but also on the palpable energy that filled every session. From keynotes that uplifted the voices of Gen Z and allies,  to interactive workshops, this year’s conference brought together passionate students, advocates, and experts, all with lived experiences in a collective mission to reshape the conversation around mental wellness. 

We spent two full days exchanging ideas, sharing stories, and igniting conversations that will resonate long after the conference doors closed. With an impressive lineup of speakers and presenters including an inspiring panel of Gen Z students, Assistant Secretary of Education Glenna Wright Gallo, singer/songwriter Alexander Stewart, and Olympic athlete Manteo Mitchell, each bringing their unique perspectives to the forefront, their messages resonating deeply, sparking conversation amongst attendees. 

The weekend also showcased incredible growth sessions that were diverse and insightful. These smaller gatherings allowed attendees to dive deeper into specific topics like promoting health equity and empowering young people to work toward policy reform in their communities. fostering intimate discussions.

Active Minds Founder and Executive Director, Alison Malmon put it best:

“When we collaborate, listen, and amplify each other’s voices and ideas as we have done over these past two days, we create a powerful movement that reshapes how we talk and act about mental health – in our homes and throughout our communities. This is a movement that will shape the culture surrounding mental health for generations to come.”

Let’s build on this momentum together. The journey towards improved mental health awareness is ongoing and requires collective effort. By keeping these discussions alive, we contribute to a culture where mental health is prioritized and treated with the respect it deserves. 

We’ve got plenty of the fun and photos on Instagram, so take some time to catch up on what went down. Search #ActiveMindsCon24 to find posts from attendees, as well!

Want to be the first to know about registration for next year? Join our email list for exclusive access. Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

2024-07-29

Recharge and Conquer: Self-Care Tips for Conference

 

<< Active Minds Blog

Conferences are amazing opportunities to learn, network, and get inspired. But let’s face it: they can also be overwhelming. With packed schedules, endless information, and the constant buzz of activity, it’s easy to forget about yourself. That’s why self-care is essential for thriving, not just surviving, a conference.

Why Self-Care Matters

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s strategic. When you prioritize your well-being, you’re better equipped to absorb information, connect with others, and make the most of your conference experience. Plus, it prevents burnout and keeps you energized throughout the event.

Quick Self-Care Hacks for Conference-Goers:

  • Mindful Breaks: Schedule short breaks throughout the day to recharge. Step outside for some fresh air, meditate, or simply close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
  • Nourish Your Body: Opt for healthy snacks and meals to fuel your brain and body. Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle.
  • Power Naps: Short power naps can do wonders for your energy levels. Find a quiet spot to rest for 20-30 minutes.
  • Digital Detox: Take breaks from your phone and social media to fully engage in the present moment.
  • Connect with Others: Building connections can be rejuvenating. Take time to chat with fellow attendees, share experiences, and offer support.
  • Move Your Body: Incorporate physical activity into your schedule. Take a walk, do some stretches, or find a fitness class nearby.
  • Prioritize Sleep: Aim for a good night’s sleep to wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the next day.

Remember, self-care is personal. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. By making self-care a priority, you’ll leave the conference feeling energized, inspired, and ready to take on the world.

The 2024 Active Minds Conference is officially SOLD OUT! Over 400+ youth and young adults will join us in Washington, DC from August 2nd-3rd, 2024.

Want to be the first to know about registration for next year? Join our email list for exclusive access. Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

2024-08-28

Active Minds x First Aid Beauty: Your Ultimate Guide to Managing Stress and Finding Support on Campus

<< Active Minds Blog

Are you a college student who sometimes feels overwhelmed by the pressures of academic life? Are you struggling to manage stress and find the support you need on campus? Look no further! Active Minds and First Aid Beauty have partnered to engage college students like you to share your voices and impact your communities today, and for years to come.

If you’re feeling the stress of school and personal life, we want to help. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you manage.

Managing Stress:

Stress is an inevitable part of college life, but it’s important to have effective coping mechanisms in place. Here are some tips to help you manage stress:

  1. Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself by engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time with friends.
  2. Stay Active: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and boost your mood. Whether it’s going for a walk, hitting the gym, or joining a sports team, find an activity that works for you.
  3. Get Organized: Create a schedule or to-do list to help you stay on top of your assignments and deadlines. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can help reduce feelings of overwhelm.
  4. Reach Out for Help: Don’t be afraid to seek support from a counselor, therapist, or trusted friend. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

Finding Support on Campus:

Navigating college can be challenging, but having a support system in place can make all the difference. Here’s how you can find support on campus:

  1. Join Active Minds: Active Minds is a national organization dedicated to raising mental health awareness on college campuses. By joining an Active Minds chapter, you can connect with like-minded individuals, participate in events and workshops, and access resources to support your mental well-being. Get more information on how to join or start a chapter. 
  2. Utilize Campus Resources: Most colleges offer counseling services, support groups, and mental health resources. If you’re having a tough time coping with stress, speaking with a mental health counselor at your college can help. Support groups can help if you’re feeling isolated or depressed. 

Navigating your college journey isn’t easy, but you are strong and capable. By making mental health a priority, you can ensure that the road ahead is smoother and more enjoyable. 

The Importance of Prioritizing Mental Health in During Your First Year of College

In your first year of college, it’s easy to prioritize academic success and social activities over mental health. However, neglecting mental health can have serious consequences on overall well-being and academic performance. Ensuring your mental health is acknowledged and supported is just as important as studying, making new friends, and getting involved.

Why Prioritizing Mental Health is Crucial in College

College can be a challenging time for many students, as they navigate academic pressures, social relationships, and newfound independence. The stress of exams, deadlines, and social expectations can take a toll on mental health if not properly managed. Prioritizing mental health in college is crucial for several reasons:

  • Improved Academic Performance: Research shows that students who prioritize their mental health are more likely to perform better academically. By taking care of your mental well-being, you can enhance your focus, concentration, and overall performance in school.
  • Enhanced Overall Well-Being: Mental health affects all aspects of our lives, including physical health, relationships, and daily functioning. Prioritizing mental health can lead to improved overall well-being and a better quality of life.
  • Prevention of Mental Health Issues: By taking proactive steps to prioritize mental health, you can reduce the risk of developing mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Early intervention and support are key in maintaining good mental health.

At Active Minds, we’re here to help you along the way. Our new partnership with First Aid Beauty is focused specifically on equipping you with the knowledge, tools, and resources that can help you in your first year of college and beyond. To find out more and get involved with Active Minds visit https://www.activeminds.org/programs/chapter-network/. 

This blog post is supported by First Aid Beauty

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

2024-08-20

Youth Mental Health Takes Center Stage: Senate Passes Groundbreaking Resolution

<< Active Minds Blog

Did you know that nearly half of all adolescents in the United States have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their lives? That’s a staggering statistic, and highlights the importance of a recent development in the U.S. Senate. 

Last month, the Senate unanimously passed Senate Resolution 769 (S.R. 769), a groundbreaking declaration of the youth mental health crisis in the United States. But here’s the twist – this resolution wasn’t just about young people; it was actually written by them. Young advocates collaborated closely with legislators, ensuring their voices resonates in the halls of power! This effort marks a significant milestone in youth advocacy and underscores the critical importance of mental health.

Breaking Down S.R.769:

So, what exactly does this resolution do? Here are the key points:

  1. It officially declares a mental health crisis among youth in the U.S.
  2. It calls for improved training for educators to support students with mental health issues
  3. It pushes for early intervention and crisis response measures in schools
  4. It emphasizes the need for mental health education and reducing stigma
  5. It highlights the importance of focusing on  rural and underserved communities

Why This Matters to You:

You might be thinking, “Okay, but how does this actually affect me?” Great question! This resolution is a crucial first step in improving mental health support for young people like you. It could lead to:

  • Increased Resources: More mental health resources in your school
  • Better Support: Better-trained teachers who can spot and support students struggling with mental health
  • Reduced Stigma: Less stigma around talking about mental health
  • Improved Access: Easier access to mental health care, especially if you live in a rural area

The Bigger Picture:

S.R. 769 isn’t an isolated effort. It’s part of a larger movement in Congress, with several other bills also pushes  for improvements in mental health education, early intervention, and crisis response in schools. For instance, bills like the Higher Education in Mental Health Act (S.1665) and the Improving Mental Health Access for Students Act (S. 1236) are currently being reviewed by the Senate, with the potential to provide additional resources and support for young people across the country.

What’s Next?:

Passing this resolution is a great start, but there’s still work to do. The next steps involve turning these words into action, which could include new funding for mental health programs, changes in school policies, and new laws to improve access to mental health care. But here’s where you come in – your voice matters! Stay informed about mental health policies, share your experiences (if you’re comfortable), and let your representatives know that youth mental health should be a priority.

Resources and Support:

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember: you’re not alone, and help is available. Here are some resources:

S.R.769 is a significant win for youth mental health, but it’s just the beginning. Your experiences, your voice, and your advocacy can help shape the future of mental health care in America. Stay informed, stay engaged, and remember – your mental health matters!

It’s super easy to register to vote. Visit vote.gov to begin the voter registration process. Select your state or territory. Depending on its rules, you will find instructions on how to register.

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

2024-07-23

Mental Health, Movies, and Mission: Meet the Summer 2024 Interns

<< Active Minds Blog

A big thank you to our incredible Summer 2024 interns, our biggest advocates for mental health awareness! Every semester, our class of interns at Active Minds contributes to important initiatives, including chapter support, program development, fundraising, and so much more. We’re grateful for the work our interns have done this summer and their contributions toward mental health awareness.

Meet Sara Valencia

Where are you from?I am from Orlando, FL.

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?I attend Duke University and am a neuroscience major with a certificate in human rights.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?I’m a Chapters Team intern for the spring semester.

What famous person would you love to meet?I’d love to meet Hozier.

How do you spend your free time?I like reading historical fiction, watching A24 movies, and baking.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to be a psychiatrist and global mental health researcher.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie?I would be Elizabeth Bennet from “Pride & Prejudice.”

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds?
I wanted to work with an organization that recognizes the importance of providing mental health support and decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.

Meet Sam McCracken

Where are you from?
Scottsdale, Arizona

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
University of Nebraska – Lincoln; Clifton Builders Management

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
MarComm; I hope to expand my knowledge of Digital Marketing and better understand how to manage multiple components of a project in a highly functioning organization.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)

I would love to meet Patrick Mahomes!

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) 

In my free time I enjoy Barbecuing, listening to country music, and hanging out with my friends! 

What is your dream job?

Professional Lottery Winner, however if that doesn’t work out my dream job would be Chief Marketing Officer.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍

Phineas From Phineas and Ferb because of his creativity and great hair color!

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!) 

Growing up in the age of ever-evolving technology, it’s hard not to be mesmerized by the innovation and paradigm changes happening in our world. Another trend we have seen throughout the rise of technology is the emphasis on mental health awareness. Mental health awareness is something I am deeply passionate about. Combining these passions allows me to use digital platforms to raise awareness and promote mental well-being.

Meet Amanda Michael 

Where are you from?
I’m from Kansas City, Kansas.

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I’m an upcoming senior at the Kansas City Art Institute for graphic design.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I interned for the graphic design department. When I started my internship here, I wanted to learn about designing with accessibility and audience in mind, and how to advocate for mental health awareness through design. I also wanted to strengthen my technical skills in the programs I use!

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, or anyone who inspires you!)
I would love to meet graphic designer Mohamed Samir. His dynamic Arabic calligraphy and typography heavily inspire my design work and encourage me to explore multilingual perspectives in my work. He’s an incredible designer who highlights the beauty of the Arabic language.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) ‍
I enjoy finding new cooking recipes, working out at the gym, knitting, and being around the people I love most!

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to be an in-house designer where I can make a difference, especially in social advocacy. I know I have a lot to learn, which makes it all the more exciting!

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
I’ve always appreciated Chihiro from Spirited Away for her bravery and perseverance when facing obstacles.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
I wanted to intern at Active Minds to gain the skills needed to design around mental health, especially regarding younger people. As a young Egyptian woman who comes from a community where mental health is stigmatized, I wanted to get the conversation around it started. Being an intern at Active Minds gave me hands-on experience with that from a design perspective.

Meet Krystn Whitty

Where are you from?
I am from Summerville, South Carolina

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I am obtaining my masters in marriage, couples, and family counselor education from the University of South Carolina.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I am a development intern. This is my second semester as a development intern, but my first doing work in foundations, so I hope to learn more about that area of the team.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
I would love to meet Jane Fonda! Aside from acting, she has been an activist for decades and is currently doing a lot of work for the environment. I find her so inspiring and would love to protest alongside of her.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!)
I spend my free time with my friends and partner! I love to gather everyone together and cook dinner for them. We watch a lot of veterinary shows and play video games.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is balancing my time between running a homestead and being a marriage and family therapists.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!)
If I could be anyone from a movie, it would be Morticia Addams. I think she’s the fiercest matriarch ever! I love her style, the dynamic she has with her family, and that she isn’t afraid to be different.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
When I first applied to intern, I was the Vice-President of my universities Active Minds Chapter. I had become so passionate about the mission we had on campus that I wanted to expand on it. Being an intern with Active Minds took something that I loved and evolved it beyond what I originally imagined.

Meet Langdon Janos

Where are you from?
I’m from Los Angeles, CA.

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I go to Washington University in St. Louis, and I study Psychological and Brain Sciences with minors in Spanish and Children’s Studies.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I’m interning with the Development team as the Development Operations intern, and I am excited to be learning about the behind the scenes of a nonprofit and connecting with the team to get a broad survey of the various roles within the development world.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
I’d love to meet Simone Biles.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!)
In my free time, I love to sing and play the piano, try out new recipes, and spend time with my friends!

What is your dream job?
My dream job has always been to be an actor!

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!)
If I could be any character, I would be Ted Lasso.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
I am passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need, so when I came across Active Minds, I was immediately interested in the organization and resonated with the mission. I volunteer as a peer counselor at my university, and I’m so grateful to take on that role, but I know that not everyone on campus feels comfortable seeking help, which is why the work at Active Minds is so important.

Meet Aubrey Hill

Where are you from?
I am from Newmarket, New Hampshire.

Where do you go to school and what is your major?
I go to the University of Delaware and I am a Communication/Public Relations Major with minors in Advertising and Leadership.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I am interning for the Operations department. I hope to learn the behind the scenes of working for a non-profit and the roles and responsibilities that come with working in different departments. I am also looking forward to picking up hard and soft skills that I can apply to present and future professional experiences.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
I would love to meet Sarah Jessica Parker from one of my favorite shows, Sex and the City. I would love to hear about the filming process, the drama with the other actresses and learn more about the fashion from the show.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!)
In my free time I like to go to the beach since I live 20 minutes from the coast! I love to spend time outside walking or hiking, spending time with friends and indulging in some retail therapy.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to be a travel writer. I would love the opportunity to combine my passion with one of my interests in my future career.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
I would be Ren McCormack from my favorite movie Footloose. Ren wasn’t afraid to follow his dreams and use his passion to bring spirit back to a lifeless town.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
Mental health has always been a very prominent topic in my family and especially in my life as a college student. When I learned more about what Active Minds was doing to change the culture around mental health, I knew it was an organization that I wanted to be involved in.

Meet Shay Desai

Where are you from?
Houston, TX

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I am a Psychology major at the University of Texas

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I am the K-12 intern! I hope to learn about the prevalent mental health challenges facing our youth and play a role in generating solutions to these issues.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
JJ Watt- he’s my all-time favorite football player and is truly inspiring in the way he gives back to his community

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) ‍
I am a diehard football fan (go Texans!) and love watching any sports. I’ve recently gotten into hiking and love traveling/exploring nature. And, I always enjoy trying new food with my friends!

What is your dream job?
I hope to open my own private practice as a Clinical Psychologist, potentially with a focus on youth/adolescents, especially young boys.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
Patrick Star- I admire the carefree way in which he lives life and his fierce loyalty to his best friends

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
The mission of Active Minds to change the conversation surrounding youth mental health deeply resonates with me. I want to provide a voice to groups who are often afraid to speak out about their mental health struggles, including young males and people of color like myself, who also account for disproportionately high numbers of mental illness.

Meet Keanu Villagonzalo

Where are you from?
Queens Village, New York

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major? UCLA and I’m a Mathematics of Computation

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I’m interning with the Measurement Team. From this internship I hope to learn new technologies and ways of analyzing data.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
I’d love to meet Paul George. He’s a very inspirational hard NBA player, who’s very kind to his fans.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!)
I spend my free time playing basketball or going on outdoor adventures! I also do club swimming and practice whenever I get the chance.

What is your dream job?

My dream is to one day run my own nonprofit, utilizing AI to further education in impoverished areas, especially around my home.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!)
I would be Stitch from the Disney movie Lilo and Stitch. Stitch is a funny character always causing trouble because of his adventurous spirit.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
In high school, one of our classmates died by suicide because of our inability to detect the warning signs. I wanted to intern with Active Minds because I wanted to address the mental health stigma and ensure help prevent events like that from happening again

Meet Anna Gefke

Where are you from?
I am from Bethesda, Maryland.

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I went to Wellesley College, majoring in Studio Art and minoring in Mathematics.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I am interning with the Development Team with Individual Giving and Community Fundraising. I hope to learn more about planning cultivation events, peer to peer fundraising, and how Active Minds communicates with donors and fundraisers.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
I would love to meet Greta Gerwig. It’s about time to watch Frances Ha again…

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) ‍
I spend my free time hiking with friends, making art, and going to movies. I also run a lot!

What is your dream job?
My dream job would be a mix of making art and working with kids in some capacity.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
A recurring image from The Odd Life of Timothy Green keeps popping up in my head. The kid stands arms wide open in a forest and lets the sunlight in. I also get so much energy back from being in nature!

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
I wanted to work alongside people actively talking about mental health in an empowering way. Since working with Active Minds last semester, and seeing products like A.S.K. and Cause + Career I’ve grown in how I talk with friends and family about challenges with mental health.

Meet Pilar Parker 

Where are you from?
I’m from Charlotte, NC.

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I attend NC State University as a Psychology major.

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I am interning for the Workforce Development department and I hope to learn effective communication skills and gain hands-on experience in the workplace.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
If I could meet a famous person, I would meet Writer-Director Greta Gerwig. I am inspired by her unique abilities to be an amazing storyteller and changemaker in the film industry.

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) ‍
In my free time, I like to read books and watch my favorite tv shows.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to be a clinical psychologist to help underserved communities.

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
If I was a character, I would be Nancy Wheeler from Stranger Things. Similar to Nancy, I care about helping others and navigating life with empathy and advocacy.

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
I wanted to intern for Active Minds because I am passionate about mental health advocacy and education for everyone and hope to help change the conversation around mental health.

Meet Trace Terrell

Where are you from?
La Pine, Oregon

Where do you (or did you) go to school, and what is/was your major?
I’m a rising junior at Johns Hopkins University studying public health and writing seminars!

What department are you interning for, and what do you hope to learn this semester?
I’m interning with the Higher Education and Policy teams this semester! I look forward to learning how postsecondary mental health policy impacts the well-being of college students.

What famous person would you love to meet? (Think changemakers, innovators, anyone who inspires you!)
Emma Stone

How do you spend your free time? (We’re all about that work-life balance!) ‍
I love to hang out with friends, be outdoors, and explore crafts and ceramics.

What is your dream job?
I would love to work as a policy advisor in a state or federal governmental agency!

Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book or movie? (Think fierce, funny, or someone who embodies your spirit!) ‍
Otis Milburn from Sex Education!

Why did you want to intern for Active Minds? (Let us know what makes our mission special to you!)
Active Minds helped save my life in high school, and to now help expand its reach for others to have the same opportunity is one of the greatest experiences of my life.

We’re looking forward to seeing all the advocacy our summer 2024 interns will contribute to for these coming months! Interested in how you can become an Active Minds intern? Learn more about the Active Minds internship program and how you can apply to join us next semester here.

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.