In 2012, Break Yo Stigma had one goal: to raise mental health awareness and money for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapters in the Bay Area, California. The team was a success and raised over $500 for the cause. When the NAMIWalks event was over, Break Yo Stigma social media accounts were created in hopes of raising more mental health awareness online. During that time, not many organizations and individuals openly spoke about their mental health issues like today. Over the years, as Brandon Ha managed the accounts, a growing community began supporting him and his efforts. It was organic and beautiful.
Today, the stigma of mental illness still exists, especially in ethnic populations in the United States and worldwide. For people living with mental health conditions, stigma is the leading cause for those not seeking help with their mental illness – it’s pervasive and shameful. Education is needed to raise awareness that mental illness is just like any other biological disease, such as diabetes and cancer. Break Yo Stigma now has a greater goal to further raise mental health awareness.
The Mental Health Forum is a space for like-minded individuals in recovery to talk, vent, and meet others in similar situations. We will also be participating in research projects at local Bay Area universities and partnering with other mental health organizations. Locally in San Jose, we will be working directly with Mayor Matt Mahan’s office to aid those affected by mental illness in the city. We would love for you to join our mission to break the stigma of mental health. Without your support and contribution, none of this would be possible. Thank you kindly and may you see light in recovery.
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