Chapters plan events such as panel discussions, Silver Wristband Campaigns for the Brain, movie screenings, keynote speakers, stress-relief activities, and Stomp out Stigma Runs, that follow the four basic tenets of the Active Minds mission:

1. Work to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health disorders
   Stigma is highly attributable to silence. The fact that people do not, and can not, talk comfortably and openly about mental health issues causes ignorance and misunderstanding. Active Minds’ goal is to break down that wall of silence, and destigmatize mental health.

2. Educate students about the prevalence of mental health disorders; the risks, signs and symptoms of particular disorders; and available resources for seeking help
   Early help-seeking promotes recovery! By educating students about the prevalence and warning signs of mental health disorders, and the fact that many disorders first present themselves within the age cohort of 15- 24, Active Minds encourages students to be aware of their mental health and seek help as soon as help is needed.

3. Expose students to the “mentally ill”--particularly young adults living with a mental health disorder
   By putting a face on mental illness, and showing students that we are all affected, Active Minds normalizes mental health disorders and breaks down the misconception that "the mentally ill" are only the people seen in the movies or on the streets. Our peers, and others we highly respect, may be diagnosed with a mental health disorder. But they are able to live full lives with their diagnosis.

4. Plan campus-friendly events that attract as much of the school community as possible
   The purpose of Active Minds is to reach all members of the community. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans suffer from a mental health disorder at any given time – which means that essentially everyone on campus is somehow affected. The goal is to destigmatize mental health disorders on the whole campus, and promote mental health awareness and good mental health among ALL students!!

If you are interested in starting a new chapter, we will mail you a Toolkit of information that details all of the above tenets and gives you specific information as to how to plan the sample events. If you would like to receive the Toolkit, click here