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| | Our MissionTo build an informed and compassionate community that works together to address mental health challenges, promote emotional well-being, and support those affected so no one has to struggle alone.… in Kathy’s name. |
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| | A Note From Our FounderDr. Michelle Boodoo |
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The holidays can feel overwhelming, sometimes even unbearable, for those carrying grief. Please be gentle with the grieving hearts around you. While Christmas trees glow, ribbons fall from beautifully wrapped gifts, and carols fill homes with joy…not everyone feels that warmth. For some of us, we’re simply praying to make it through the days. The holiday festivities that bring others so much happiness can feel like wave after wave of pain, each moment hitting like a quiet, unexpected punch. |
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Stuart AFSP WALKOn December 12th, we were honored to be a Community Partner at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Out of the Darkness Walk in Stuart, FL. As people arrived, one by one, it became clear that everyone carried a different story with the same heartaches. Families, friends, advocates, and individuals walking for themselves all came together with one shared purpose....to prevent suicide and support mental health.
Throughout the day, people stopped by our table to share their stories...stories of love, loss, fear, and hope. Some spoke through tears, some through silence. One woman shared she was walking for a family friend, someone she deeply loved. After sharing resources like the 988 Lifeline and safety planning tools, she left with a small but hopeful smile, resources in her hands, and support in her heart.
This is the power of AFSP walks. They create safe spaces where people feel seen, understood, and never alone. They bring communities together to break the stigma and remind us that support saves lives. If you or someone you love has been affected by suicide or mental health struggles, I encourage you to find a walk near you. These walks are free, but the connection, compassion, and hope they offer are truly priceless. |
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| | | Choose Kindness
At the AFSP Walk in Stuart, FL, I had the honor of promoting my book of poems and speaking with folks who are grieving a loved one. In the time we have on this earth, let’s choose kindness, compassion, and care for one another. In doing so, we may discover small pockets of peace that grow into meaningful, beautiful moments, for ourselves and for those around us.
Grieving You: Poems of Love and Loss is available anywhere books are sold and on Amazon. |
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| | | | Advocate for Mental Health
Your voice, your compassion, and your willingness to speak up can make a difference. Check in on the people you love. Listen without judgment. Learn the warning signs. Share resources. Create safe spaces for honest conversation.
No one should ever feel alone in their struggle. Together, we can reduce and eventually remove the stigma, spread hope, and save lives. |
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| | | Depression Can Look Like This
Depression doesn’t discriminate. Some people laugh the loudest, show up for everyone, and seem perfectly fine on the outside… while silently battling their darkest moments on the inside. Not everyone shows the “typical” signs of depression. Some hide it behind smiles, busy schedules, and being the strong one for everyone else. Please check on your happy friends and family, too.
A simple “How are you, really?” could mean more than you know. |
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| | Stop Suicide
Preventing suicide starts with all of us. Learn the warning signs, listen without judgment, and show compassion. Sometimes the smallest act of care can make the biggest difference. Create a safe space where people feel seen, heard, and free to speak openly. Your actions could save a life. |
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| | | Pretending to Be Okay is NOT Okay
Pretending to be okay is not okay. You don’t have to hide your pain or push through alone. Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Please, ask for help. Reach out to someone you trust. Healing starts with one honest moment. You deserve support, and you deserve peace. |
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If you are waiting for someone else to end the stigma around mental illness… and I am waiting… and she is waiting… and he is waiting, nothing changes. The stigma ends when we speak, when we listen, when we choose compassion over silence.
It starts with each of us.
A conversation.
A shared story.
A little more understanding.
A little less judgment.
Together, we can be the voice for those who are suffering in silence with their mental health. Use your voice. |
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| | Disclaimer: In Her Name & Online Community is for informational purposes. It is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace consultation with your physician or mental health professional.
If you or someone you know is in distress, CALL or TEXT 988 or go to https://988lifeline.org for help. The counselors will also help family members. |
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