02/15/2024
Reflection time: In 2017 I created a video with one of my friends about mental health. I knew it was special, but I never dreamed how much of an impact that video would have on the people who watched it, the mental health industry, NAMI and myself. In a matter of 3 months it had over 800,000 views, 21,000 likes and over 3,000 comments; organically. It was eye opening to see how people connected in so many different ways around mental health, the stories shared, the compassion, and understanding that was talked about. For my friend it was comforting and supportive to know that so many people were cheering behind him. Later I was asked to take the video down as it affected his safety and security. It was hard to do, we both knew how much positive impact it had for those who viewed it, but sometimes you have to do difficult things in order to protect yourself and those around you. One of the things that sticks with me and that I try my best to practice is: some times the only thing a friend needs is for you to just be there (AND SHUT UP). I'm still working on the second part. I'm glad that I made this video with my friend, it really showed me the power that story telling has beyond making something cool, and making money, and it drives my purpose to something where I can truly make a positive impact no matter how big or small.
