“I saw the stigma around the topic of mental health in our community, and wanted to do something to change it.” – Neha Bhat,  Senior

As of right now, approximately 450 million people suffer globally from mental health illnesses, but it is a subject that is avoided because of its supposed negative connotation. Therefore, the true facts about mental health are not getting across; instead, misinformation is being spread around, and it is the thoughts that currently exist in the minds of current society. This inspired a student to make a change in the world by creating a mental health organization called Mental Health United.

Regarding the founder of this organization, Neha Bhat attends Sayreville War Memorial High School as a senior. In addition to her passion for psychology and making a positive impact in the world, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, listening to music, taking photos, and watching Grey’s Anatomy in her free time. She is also involved in many leadership positions at SWMHS: Co-President of DECA, Vice President of the Science Club, Fundraising Department Member for FBLA, and Class Council Advisory Board Member. In this way, Neha strives to contribute to her community in any way possible, and she continues to do this with Mental Health United.

Mental Health United is a student-led organization dedicated to spreading awareness about various mental health topics. Neha describes that “the goal is to destigmatize mental health and have open conversations about topics that many people are scared to talk about.” She hopes that by creating a safe and informative environment, she can better inform people about the subject of mental health. In this way, awareness will increase and those who have illnesses will not be afraid to speak out and seek treatment. Whether society wants to believe it or not, mental health affects people’s daily lives, so it is imperative that people are properly educated on the subject.

As of right now, Mental Health United is offering graphic designer positions and a virtual volunteer opportunity to thank local healthcare workers. Neha and the board members of the organization plan to host webinars and interviews with mental health professionals, provide more volunteer opportunities, and collaborate with other mental health organizations to achieve their initiative of awareness for mental health in the future.

For more information about Mental Health United, visit the Instagram handle: mental_health_united.