Natural deodorant pioneers, Schmidt’s, a personal and home care brand known for prioritizing physical and mental wellness, has teamed up with Active Minds to highlight the power of connection, expressed through a hug! #HugMore is an initiative that champions the hug as a simple, accessible way we can take a moment for self-care – benefiting our own mental health and the mental health of others through a moment of personal connection.
To do this, we hope to inspire people to take time for personal connection and share resources to encourage continued self-care and connection for themselves and in their communities. Join us by uploading your #HugMore photos to the album or by sharing on social by tagging @SchmidtsNaturals and using #HugMore in the caption to show how you prioritize connection.
The truth is, sometimes a hug just isn’t enough. It’s time to change the conversation about mental health, and be ready to respond when a friend says they’re struggling – even in the times they need more than a hug. With support from Schmidt’s, we’ll be providing V-A-R trainings to 50 campuses in need. Learn more about the benefits of hugs and V-A-R by checking out our resources below. Through this campaign, we’ll share one unifying message: Be Kind. Stress Less. #HugMore.
The truth is, sometimes a hug just isn’t enough. If you know someone who’s struggling, reach out. You don’t have to be an expert to help. You just need to listen.
When a hug isn’t enough
A conversation can be life changing. For many people, feeling supported is just what they need.
It can be challenging, though, to know exactly what to say when someone tells you they are stressed, having a difficult day, are in pain or have a mental health need.
Active Minds suggests an approach that includes 3 V-A-R Steps so you’ll know what to say and do in those moments. A conversation that includes the elements of Validate-Appreciate-Refer is one that allows you to actively listen to someone you care about and help them cope. A conversation with you could make all the difference and prevent a crisis from developing later.
With V-A-R, Active Minds lets everyone know that someone doesn’t need to be in a crisis to seek help; you don’t have to be an expert to provide help; and help can come in many different forms. Being there for someone in a moment of need is what it’s all about.
Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.