RETHINK MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE PROFILES

Rethink Mental Health Advocates are individuals from around the world who are passionate about combatting the stigmas those with mental health issues face and debunking stereotypes around mental illness. Rethink Advocates have a strong desire to share their stories and perspectives on mental health so others do not have to feel alone in their struggles with mental health or suffer in silence.

Below is a list of our ever-growing network of world-wide Advocates, including what state/country they are in, details on their relationship with mental health and our mission along with their website, blog or social media links. View their profiles and follow them on social media to learn more about their relationship to mental health and why they advocate for mental health! 

If you are interested in becoming a Rethink Mental Health Advocates, learn more and apply here!
​To inquire about booking one of our Advocates as a speaker for an event contact support@rethinkstigma.org

Meet Our ADVOCATES

Join our team!

Riley Northover

Melbourne, Australia

ABOUT
I have struggled with a number of mental health issues through the years and it definitely hasn't been easy but with some help along the way I was able to get through them and don't get me wrong I still do have bad days but some days are better than others but there always gonna be people around you who love and support you! ​
Tiktok: Rileyjon0
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Mental health…is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.

Rachel E Barker

USA

About
I am an advocate for mental health and the end to the stigma associated with mental illnesses as a daughter to a mother with undiagnosed mental illnesses throughout my childhood and as a member of a family who was too afraid of the stigma associated to ever engage in the healthy discussions and resources necessary in order to empower and lift one another up in such circumstances. I am an advocate for anyone who is feeling alone. I am an advocate because I understand. I am an advocate because I am you too.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • ALL of us have suffered some traumas in our lives, whether it's big T trauma or small t trauma; you are not alone.
  • Remember to believe in You. No matter what.
  • Without the bad days, there can be no good.

Sherlee Weeks

Louisiana

ABOUT
There is a history of mental health issues within my family, though it was never discussed. Several of my close family members and myself deal with mental health issues currently. As the subject was taboo in my family, I never learned how to deal with, or even acknowledge these issues. Now that mental health issues have struck my immediate family, as well as myself, I realize more the stigma that is attached, and how hard it is to overcome that. I personally believe that mental health is as important as, if not more so, than physical health. I hope that by becoming a mental health advocate that I can help to affect some change with this issue.
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • We can stand anything for a little while.
  • To fix a problem we have to acknowledge that we have a problem.
  • Mental health issues affect everyone, but not everyone acknowledges that.

Meera

England

ABOUT
My experience of experiencing depression and bulimia as an Indian has motivated me to advocate for mental health. There is still a stigma surrounding mental health in Indian communities and I want to help change that. ​
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You are worthy.
  • You are more than enough.
  • Be gentle with yourself and know that it's not a sign of weakness asking for help, it's a sign of bravery.

Maddy Keegan

Indiana, USA

About
Mental health is something I hold very close to my heart. As someone who has struggled with mental health and has family members who have also struggled, I understand how difficult it can be to live with mental health issues. Raising awareness, supporting those who are affected by mental health issues, and sharing experiences of how I was able to cope is what motivates me to be an advocate for in important cause such as mental health. I understand the pain; however, I also have hope for better days! Together, we can end the stigma.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • Its okay to not be okay!
  • There is light at the end of the tunnel!
  • The sun will rise and we will try again.
  • Your life matters!

Cassie Rodgers

Missouri, USA

ABOUT
I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was 17, just a few months before I attempted suicide during my Senior Year of High School. Depression was never a word I had used to associate myself with, but my emotions soon overflowed with the constant bottling up of my anxiety I was trying so desperately to hide. No one expected it, and I don't believe you ever really do. It's been a long, hard almost 8 years and now at the age of 24, I'm just beginning to feel comfortable and vulnerable enough to speak out about mental health and the crippling stigma that stands behind it.
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • How I feel matters.
  • There are people out there who understand what I am going through.
  • Reaching out for support shows strength.
  • I am more than just a mental illness.​

David Myrick II

ABOUT
My relationship with mental health is that I understand how vital it is to take care of yourself mentally. Encouraging myself through positive affirmations and music help me on my daily journey. My motivation for becoming a mental health advocate is that helping others is who I am. I want to bring awareness about mental health and support those who are on their journey to a more healthy and flourishing life.
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Today will be a great day, tomorrow will be better!

Clare MCCANN

Oregon, USA

About
The notion that mental and physical health live in separate realms is false. We should speak about and accept the importance of both in our everyday lives. I am an advocate for increasing and continuing the conversation surrounding mental health for ALL, regardless of direct need. I am an advocate for creating more opportunities and accessibility for mental health professionals and those receiving their services. I am an advocate for the de-stigmatization of mental health.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • You are not a burden
  • You are not alone
  • Ask for help

Emma Uriarte

Montevideo, Uruguay

ABOUT
I am a 14 year old girl diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder after I suffered from severe panic attacks, before I got diagnosed I had no idea of what mental health was and was really scared and lost. I now want to help spread awareness on mental health and educate people on this subject.
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You are not alone
  • You are worthy of love
  • It's not always easy, but you'll make it through
  • Don't give up on yourself​

Caitlin Kindberg

TENNESSEE, USA

ABOUT
When I was younger and more naive, I believed all the stigmas associated with mental health. Now that I am older, wiser, and took the time to educate myself, I want to help educate others and share my story. The mental health crisis we are all currently facing has only worsened throughout this pandemic and period of isolation. My heart goes out to all that are struggling and I just want them to know that they're not alone and there are resources available to help them!
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • I can get through whatever life throws at me.
  • I am getting stronger each and every day. ​
  • As long as I'm happy, I don't care what others think.
  • I am not afraid to make mistakes.
  • I am proud of myself and how far I've come.

Andrea Lubaya

OHIO, USA

About
I have struggled with mental health for as long as I can remember, I was diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder, and I experience Depression episodes. I want to be an advocate for those who have no voice, or for those who have been struggling in silence
Social Media
Affirmations
  • It’s okay not be ok
  • You are not your illness
  • To lose patience is to lose the battle

Analyssa Avila

ARIZONA, USA

ABOUT
My relationship with Mental Health has always been difficult. However, what made it difficult was me not being okay with it. Once I became aware of it and held my mental illness accountable, it became a bit more easier. Although, it is still a struggle I deal with, what keeps me going is knowing I can help others and help advocate others to not feel alone.
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Mental illness does not define you or I, it makes us stronger. <3​

Josh Allen B.S

MARYLAND, USA

ABOUT
Joshua Allen has an intensive background in Mental Health, with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology specialized in Mental Health and Substance abuse from the University of Maryland - Global Campus. Actively pursuing a Masters in Psychiatric Social Work from Walden University. Skilled in Crisis Intervention, Case Management, Communication, Mental Health Care, and Medicine. ​
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • It’s ok not to be ok.
  • Love UNCONDITIONALLY.
  • I am in control of my thoughts and my life.
  • I matter
  • It’s ok to say no.

Berenice

TENNESSEE, USA

About
I have worked with people with mental illness for a long time. I have seen mental illnesses very close and how devastating it can be. I know we can help to ease the pain mental illnesses causes. I do want to help to heal and to be useful to anyone who suffers from mental illness.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • The universe supports me in everything I do.I am healing. I am always well.” I allow the pain from the past to go, I open myself to new and wonderful opportunities.
  • We don’t forgive to become enlighten, neither to look good, we forgive to be free
  • I choose to be healthy, I am ready to receive all the good the Universe has for me

Sarah

NSW, Australia

ABOUT
I have an ongoing battle with depression, borderline, dysthymia and complex PTSD. I have been labelled too difficult to get any support from my local mental health system so I'm being a voice for myself and so many others who suffer in silence.
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Imagine what you could do if you knew you couldn't fail. What if I fall? Oh but darling, What if you fly.. Shoot for the moon because even if you miss you'll land amongst the stars
  • My story isn't over yet
  • Keep moving forward
  • BeYOUtiful

KATE WINTERINK

IOWA, USA

ABOUT
I am a mental illness survivor. I am currently dealing with stigma from family, and want to do my part to make sure that others are feeling that the help theyre getting is beneficial. I also lost my mother to suicide almost 12 years ago.
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You matter.
  • You will always be good enough.
  • I will always listen to you without bias.

Kailee Bartek

CONNECTICUT, USA

About
My relationship to mental health is my anxiety, I suffer with it everyday and sometimes I think people don’t really understand it, But if you suffer from any of the mental illnesses your not alone. You are loved. What motivates me to became an advocate to mental health is to help people, I want them to know your gonna be already even when it feels like your not❤️ I love you.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • You’re amazing
  • You will find peace
  • Your thoughts and ideas are valid
  • No one is perfect❤️

javon cope

Pennsylvania, USA

ABOUT
my spouse was diagnosed with mental retardation at age 4 he is now 28 and life has been really hard coping I see it first hand the struggles and the tears so that's why I am standing up to become an advocate
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Push through, don't give up, we are family.

Samantha Richards​

NSW, Australia

ABOUT
I have struggled with my mental health since the beginning of high school and because of this, I understand how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help. I want to be able to share this with people and let them know it’s okay not to always be okay and that they are not alone in this battle. I am passionate about breaking the stigma associated with mental Heath and helping others reach out when things are tough!
social media
affirmations
  • It’s okay not to be okay
  • You may feel broken, but you won’t be this way forever
  • The bravest thing you can do is be yourself
  • Not everyday is a good day, and that’s okay

Matthew hicks

Kentucky, USA

About
I used to struggle alittle bit with mental health myself. It destroyed me for awhile until I decided to better myself for others. I've seen what it does to others and myself and id hate to see anyone go through it. Im here to make others know they aren't alone in the fight.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • Its ok to not be ok!
  • Don't be afraid to reach out to someone who you can trust.
  • Just remember you are never alone in the fight!

Danielle Kirby

Nevada, USA

ABOUT
I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder my senior year of high school. I have struggled with manic and depressive episodes for as long as I can remember. I want to help people who go through the same things l do in any way I can! I am very passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health, and I want to raise awareness on the importance of taking care of your mind!
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Be Bigger then the problem, don’t let the problem Be Bigger then you!​

Andree Decastro

New York, USA

ABOUT
I am a licensed mental health counselor, and on a daily basis I work with people who are suffering significantly. I am motivated to help those who are in need by providing high end counseling services. A lot of times people say that their family members think therapy is a taboo or it doesn’t work. I think that stigma prevents many people from getting the help they may need to live a more positive and self empowered life. Therapy does help and I have seen the results directly. I am here to advocate against that stigma so everyone can experience positive results from therapy. ​
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You are not alone.
  • Your struggles don’t define you.
  • Your mind is more powerful than you think.

GeorgieBella Young

Buckinghamshire, UK

About
I am very passionate in helping people (after years of volunteering with girl guiding, Florence nightingale hospice charity shop and fundraising. Also aspiring to work as a barrister in the criminal justice system). I especially would love to help with mental health issues- something that is so common but hardly talked about. After struggling with my own mental health issues (anorexia nervosa, post traumatic stress disorder and social anxiety) and embarking on a journey of recovery- I would love to help others do the same, I cannot thank myself enough for the continued strength I put in to start and even now to continue recovery, life is so much happier with more colours, reasons to live, reasons to eat and reasons to enjoy life. You can start to, you will be forever thankful for it- it is hard but so so worth it. There is hope, things will work out in the end and if things haven't worked out yet- then it is not the end.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • You have to nourish to flourish.
  • There is always light at the end of the tunnel.
  • When you think you have hit rock bottom, the only way to go is up.
  • Don't do permanent things on temporary emotions.
  • It is okay to cry, it is okay to scream, it is okay to be upset but it is not okay to give up.
  • Your body is like a phone case, your heart is like the phone- you care about what is inside, that is what is most important but you need to look after the case.

Leesa Stoddart

NSW, Australia

ABOUT
I have worked in and around mental heath for aproximately 4 years. I feel advocacy is so important for people whom need this kind of support. I'm passionate and dedicated to anyone with whom I have the privileged to be a part of their journey.
AFFIRMATIONS
  • your journey starts and progresses with every new day​

Laura Kaponer

South Carolina, USA

ABOUT
For most of my life I felt deep internalized shame regarding my mental illnesses and eating disorder. I found my greatest strength when I connected with peers. This is how I found my voice. I’m still in various stages of recovery because recovery isn’t linear. I’m hoping to be the voice for those who haven’t found theirs yet and when they do may we find strength within one another. ​
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • “Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings end”-Semisonic
  • “We forgive ourselves and reject guilt.”- NAMI
  • Scars are proof we were brave enough to fight the battle and strong enough to survive it.

Alexis

Connecticut, USA

About
I have a personal relationship with mental health, both within myself and within my close friends. I also work with adults to understand their mental health and how to cope with it. Mental health is something that is very close to my heart, I am motivated to be a mental health advocate because there is still a stigma associating mental health, and we together we can work towards changing that and making a more positive attitude towards mental health!
Social Media
Affirmations
  • This too, shall pass

PHOEBE CANDY

About
Having borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be both challenging and confusing. Due to the stigma surrounding personality disorders, I was too embarrassed to tell anyone. I was scared that I would be judged and abandoned by people. This can be isolating as trusting to talk to somebody is extremely hard. It has motivated me to be an advocate for mental health because I am passionate about making a difference and educating people on the stigma surrounding mental health.
AFFIRMATIONS
  • I understand your pain. Trust me, I do. I've seen people go from the darkest moments in their lives to living a happy, fulfilling life.
  • Don't let your struggle become your identity.
  • If you are not okay, that's okay. It will happen sometimes. But you have to tell yourself things will be better tomorrow, even if they're not better tomorrow; keeping telling yourself, they will be because eventually, tomorrow will be better.

Cassidy Smith

ALABAMA, USA

ABOUT
When I was 14 years old, I was in a very dark place that consisted of self harm, depression, anxiety, and being suicidal. Ever since then, it has been my purpose in life to help those who need help. I am 22 years old now and I still battle with mental illness, but I refuse to let that stop me from making a difference! Please always remember, it only takes ONE person to make a difference!
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You are worth it!
  • It's ok to not be ok!
  • You are enough!

SINEM

LONDON, UK

ABOUT
I have suffered with anxiety & depression and still do from time To time but have learned different ways in which to cope with this.
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • There’s always always light at the end of any tunnel ​

LAcey

Florida, USA

ABOUT
When I was younger I suffered in silence with my mental health. As an adult I was able to see that there was help out there. I went on to get my Psychology degree because I wanted to help people and let them know that there is hope. It's so important to be open about mental health and to let people that it's ok to ask for help. We're here for support and to let you know that you are not alone!
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You matter.
  • It's ok to ask for help.
  • You are not alone.
  • You are loved ​

KayLeigh

ESSEX, UK

ABOUT
I have struggled with mental health problems from a very young age and continue to do so to this day. I am so passionate about spreading awareness and contributing to removing the stigma surrounding mental health. I believe it really helps talking to someone who has experience with it, as I have personally found that it is hard to explain to someone who hasn’t been through what you have. I try to encourage people struggling to reach out and remember there is always help available. ​
Social Media
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Things always get better, no matter how bad it may feel right now, you are going to be okay.
  • If you can make it through the night, there’s a brighter day.
  • You are resilient and can get through anything.
  • You are more than enough.
  • Asking for help is strength.
  • Having a bad day is okay.

Louise Rogers​

KENT, UK

About
I have a personal relationship with mental health, both within myself and within my close friends. I also work with adults to understand their mental health and how to cope with it. Mental health is something that is very close to my heart, I am motivated to be a mental health advocate because there is still a stigma associating mental health, and we together we can work towards changing that and making a more positive attitude towards mental health!
Social Media
Affirmations
  • You are more than your worst moments.
  • You are ALWAYS enough!
  • I am brave, strong and worthy.
  • There is no rainbow without the rain.

Eloise Harrod

SUSSEX, UK

ABOUT
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Its ok to not be ok
  • Every step towards recovery is a step..no matter how big or small! ​

Heidi Montague

West sussex, UK

ABOUT
I suffered with crippling anxiety and emetophobia, and growing up I lost my mum and witness a suicide, I believe I was put on this earth to save people. To help others and to make a safe wholesome community for people to get help and support with their mental health. ​
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Everything happens for a reason
  • Your mistakes do not define you
  • Don’t be afraid of change
  • Be the energy you want to attract
  • A negative mind won’t give you a positive future.

nicole perez

California, USA

About
Mental health has been in my life for years now. I was sexually assaulted at 18 years old and was diagnosed with having PTSD, depression, and anxiety while active duty. I have fought for years to understand my own mind and this inspired me to help others that surround me in facing their own struggles. July 2020 I had lost my late husband (age 22) to suicide due to his struggles with mental health and the inspiration to reach out and help as many other people as I can grew stronger. My passion to always be there has become my drive, because sometimes that's all others may need from you, to be present. If I can save, help, or even simply make someone's day then I know I am fulfilling my purpose in life as well as taking part in the positive difference being made in the world of mental health.
Social Media
Affirmations
  • As long as you're trying, you'll never fail.
  • Not everyone will understand and that's okay.
  • It's okay to not be okay.
  • A disorder does not define who you are.
  • You are enough.

Kajua Lor

WISCONSIN, USA

ABOUT
Growing up as a first generation Hmong immigrant/refugee, I have witnessed the barriers to mental health in my own community. Suicide is on the rise and is the number one reason for death in young Asian Americans. I would like to be a part of this change to advocate for mental health within my own areas of influence. ​
SOCIAL MEDIA
AFFIRMATIONS
  • You are enough.
  • You belong.
  • You are here for a reason.
  • You are a fabric of the community.
  • It's ok to not be ok.

Tracey Cullen

West midlands, UK

ABOUT
Having worked 1st hand with mental health I'm here to give any support that I can ❤ always here for any 1 that needs help. Please never just sit back and do nothing when you see things that are not right ❤
AFFIRMATIONS
  • Please don't go through things alone
  • Its OK not to be OK!
  • We are always here to help

Brianna Wiseman

New South Wales, Australia

About