October 8, 2021

#FreeYourMe Social Media Campaign

For World Mental Health Day (October 10), we are launching the #FreeYourMe social media campaign to end mental health stigma and advocate for more mental health education.

“FREE YOUR METM is a call to action for people to get help for themselves and others, especially youth, without fear or shame,” says Erin Raftery Ryan, Executive Director of NAMI Westside Los Angeles. “We’re raising our voices to inspire those who want to speak their truth but worry how it will be received. We want more people to know there is help and hope for those impacted by mental health conditions.” 

Starting on World Mental Health Day 2021, you will see #FreeYourMe posts from

The #FreeYourMe message is simple: Make yourself heard. NOW. 

Here’s how you be part of the #FreeYourMe movement:

  • SUPPORT: Fundraise for the cause! Visit freeyourme.namila.org/donate to supporting our mental health education programs and support for children and youth
  • ENGAGE: Follow @FreeYourMeOfficial and @NAMIWLA on Instagram and the #FreeYourMe hashtag across all social media platforms to see inspiring posts from public figures helping us get the word out. Like, comment on, and share posts that resonate with you on your social media accounts. Let’s fill our social media feeds with inspiring, stigma-busting posts!
  • POST: Share your own #FreeYourMe story about your mental health experiences. Did your life get better after getting mental health support? Do you want to thank someone for helping you? Use the #FreeYourMe hashtag and tag us: @NAMIWLA and @FreeYourMeOfficial on Instagram. Or: submit your comments or story by form. Students: we have a special form for you to share videos!
  • SHARE: We can all share information and resources with those in our lives. Why it is so important for us to be ending stigma and advocating for more mental health education? 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10-34. 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system have at least one mental health condition. 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24. If you or someone you know might need mental health help, share our information and resources. Also, find out more about mental health education.

Bonus for those in the Westside Los Angeles area: Request an Ending the Silence presentation at your school!