In recent years, mental health awareness has become a vital topic across the United States, with organizations striving to break down the stigma that surrounds it. In Boise, Idaho, a collective of three nonprofits—the Youth Mental Health Alliance (also known as You Me We All), The Speedy Foundation, and Connection is the Cure—recently collaborated to ignite discussions around mental health and suicide prevention. Their efforts are especially important as Idaho consistently ranks among the top ten states in the nation for suicide rates, indicating an urgent need for awareness and resources.
### The Heart of the Initiative
The primary goal of these nonprofits is to foster cultural change regarding mental health conversations. Stacy Sericati, co-founder of You Me We All, emphasized the societal shift they aim to create. “We’re changing culture here. We’re changing society, and it’s happening right now,” she asserted. This statement reflects a commitment to make mental health a prioritized topic, encouraging individuals to feel seen, supported, and hopeful in the face of their challenges.
Bringing in professional skier and mental health advocate Drew Peterson served as a significant highlight for the initiative. Peterson, whose personal journey with mental health struggles intensified following a mountain accident, visited Boise State University and several local high schools to share his experience. Through his story, Peterson aims to demonstrate that struggle is a universal human experience, one that binds us all.
### Drew Peterson’s Journey
Peterson delivered his message during multiple engagements throughout the week, resonating with audiences of all ages. “Struggle is a shared part of the human experience. For every single human being on this planet, we are all going to struggle at some point in our lives,” he explained. His insights were not only relatable but also a source of hope, highlighting that strength is equally a shared experience.
One of the key events was the community screening of Peterson’s film “Feel It All,” held at the Egyptian Theatre, which attracted hundreds of attendees. The 34-minute film chronicles not just his achievements as a skier and ultramarathon runner but also his ongoing mental health journey. “It’s not just about running 100 miles; it’s about being human,” Peterson expressed, underscoring that there is no definitive endpoint in managing mental health. “And spoiler alert, the film does not end at the finish line, because I believe there is no finish line with mental health.”
### Impact on the Community
The partnership between these nonprofits represents more than just an event; it signifies a growing acknowledgment of mental health issues within the community. The organizations plan to extend their outreach efforts beyond September, which is typically recognized as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Sericati noted the importance of keeping the conversation alive throughout the year: “We need to make every month like this. Just talking about it is so important, and de-stigmatizing it is really, really important.”
By engaging with community members and offering resources, the nonprofits are addressing the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. The proactive discussions led by these organizations aim to remove the shame and stigma that often accompany mental health struggles, paving the way for a more open dialogue in Boise.
### Community Resources
For individuals in need, the national suicide and crisis lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. Local resources provided by the nonprofits include educational workshops, mental health screenings, and peer support networks aimed at building resilience and awareness. These initiatives empower individuals to take control of their mental health and encourage them to reach out when they are in need.
### Conclusion
The ongoing collaboration among nonprofits in Boise to fight mental health stigma signifies a larger movement toward cultural change. As mental health continues to be a pressing issue, initiatives like those led by You Me We All, The Speedy Foundation, and Connection is the Cure are crucial. By sharing personal stories, presenting films like “Feel It All,” and providing resources, these organizations are crafting a support network that not only addresses the immediate needs of those struggling but also fosters long-term cultural shifts in how mental health is perceived and discussed.
The message is clear: it’s acceptable to talk about mental health, and there is strength in vulnerability. Everyone has the ability to confront their struggles and should feel empowered to seek help, fostering a more supportive community in Boise and beyond.
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