asha international mental health

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From Adversity to Advocacy: A Personal and Political Perspective on Navigating a Bipolar Life

From Adversity to Advocacy: A Personal and Political Perspective on Navigating a Bipolar Life

“Sharing our stories without shame is a huge part of our journey to wellbeing” says writer, activist, attorney and award-winning author, Melody Moezzi. “We are not broken. We are brave. We are brilliant. We are beautiful. And, we are blessed.” Watch Melody’s inspiring story of how she is thriving despite her struggles with bipolar...
The Color of My Mind: Reflections of A Queer Latina Mental Health Activist

The Color of My Mind: Reflections of A Queer Latina Mental Health Activist

As an eight-year-old Latina girl growing up in New York, Dior wrote in her dairy – “My life is over. My mother says no my life is not over. Well, I think so. The end.” Her parent’s divorce, domestic violence, threat of eviction and bullying at school filled her with despair. But her grandmother’s love sustained and inspired her to excel at school and become an activist. Today, Dior is a Latina Feminist Mental Health Activist advocating for equitable mental health care for all. She is the creator of the People of Color and Mental Illness Photo Project, a response to the invisibility of Black Indigenous People of Color in the media representation of mental illness. She is also the editor of The Color of My Mind, a photo essay book based on the photo project. She tours the country giving keynotes, hosting workshops, and speaking on panels. Her work and insight have been covered in media outlets such as The New York Times, Forbes, Newsweek, and NBC News Latino. Dior is the recipient of numerous awards including, The White House Champion of Change for Disability Advocacy Across Generations under the Obama administration. Watch Dior’s inspiring...

July is #BIPOCMentalHealthMonth.

Systemic oppression has significant impact on the mental health and well-being of Black, Indigenous, People Of Color (BIPOC). Historical and contemporary injustices continue to perpetuate trauma through generations and into today. BIPOC communities are resilient and have worked hard to uplift their communities despite systemic barriers and the impact of trauma. All of us at ASHA International celebrate their resilience. And, during the month of July, we will be sharing stories to honor their journey. See Olympic Gold Medalist Chamique’s story below and join us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to see more inspiring stories. Click here to learn more about the impact of trauma and access lists of resources specifically for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities provided by our friends at Mental Health America. Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame hooper and Olympic gold medal winner Chamique Holdsclaw has dedicated her life to end the stigma of mental illness and be a voice for those who feel marginalized and voiceless. Watch Chamique’s inspiring...
The Healing Power of Vulnerability

The Healing Power of Vulnerability

Adam knew he was gay from a very young age, but it took him over a decade and a half to admit it to both himself and those around him. He went through multiple episodes of depression, without realizing it was because he refused to accept essential parts of himself and share them with his friends and family. Once he learned how to become vulnerable, he realized how powerful it can be to operate from a place of radical vulnerability and not listen to shame. Compared to people who identify as straight, LGBTQ individuals are 3 times more likely to experience a mental health condition. And LGBTQ youth are 4 times more likely to attempt suicide, experience suicidal thoughts, and engage in self-harm, as compared to youths that are straight. Watch Adam’s inspiring story. about his journey to well-being. And, share it with your family and friends....
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