Blog Posts by Remi Larson
#HereForYou
When you’re struggling with your mental health, it can be incredibly difficult to reach out. We may fear being met with stigma and misunderstanding, or we may fear no one will be there at all. It’s important to let people know “I’m here for you,” because even if they aren’t ready to talk at that…
Breaking Down Barriers to Fundraising
Fundraising can certainly seem like a daunting task. It can be overwhelming to think about the amount you hope to raise and not know how to get there. We’ve come up with some questions that will help guide you through the process of planning and executing a successful fundraiser! The first thing you need to…
How Sharing My Mental Health Story is Like Coming Out
For most of us, we wait some time before seeking mental health treatment. And even after we have been in treatment or even recovered, we don’t always share our experiences with others. Struggling with your mental health is something you’ve dealt with and known about for a long time, but it’s just not something you’ve…
Self-Harm Myths & Misconceptions
Content Warning: This piece contains mentions of self-harm. Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), otherwise known as self-harm, is not a mental illness in itself, but a sign of a lack of adequate coping skills. It involves behaviors that intentionally harm oneself and is a sign of mental distress. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about self-harm,…
Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders
This is part 2 of a two-part series on eating disorders. It can often be confusing to know the difference between disordered eating and eating disorders. Though the two sound very similar, they have very different meanings and effects on those that exhibit the signs of each. Disordered eating is not a diagnosable mental illness,…
How to Help a Friend With an Eating Disorder
This is part 1 of a two-part series on eating disorders. It can certainly be difficult when a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder. We often find ourselves not knowing what to say or do. All we want to do is help, but we can become so afraid of saying or doing the…
“Mad Hatter” Perpetuates Stigma around Mental Illness
This post speaks candidly about the portrayal of mental illness in popular media and includes stigmatizing language and descriptions to help inform readers about the topic. In recent years discussion about mental health and awareness about mental illness has been on the rise. The conversation has even found its way into pop culture with musical artists like Sia. However, mental…
What We Say Matters
Content Warning: This piece contains mentions of suicide. Written by Remi Larson, Active Minds Student Advisory Committee and Active Minds at UCLA member. I’m here. I’m breathing. I’m alive. This surprises me sometimes. Then I remember how lucky I am for this second chance. When I attempted suicide I felt there was no hope left….
Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.