FIFTY2 End Stigma
We confront stigma every day – rules about what’s okay for us to say, do, or feel. And yes, some rules are in place for the purposes of civil society, but others are there to oppress. For example, boys don’t cry. I can tell you right now, if someone gives an outstanding performance on stage or film, if someone I know experiences a loss, or I read something that moves me deeply, then my eyes are watering, rules, and stigma, be damned. But stigma impacts people in very real ways, including not seeking mental healthcare when we’re in need of support.
That gives you an idea of what we want to tackle in our design of the FIFTY2 End Stigma campaign for Family Services, a challenge to run, walk, or hike 52 miles in the month of October to raise awareness about the impacts of stigma and the resources available for mental wellness in the Hudson Valley.
To take on something as pervasive as stigma, you need a movement, and that’s what we’re attempting. We designed FIFTY2 End Stigma to build year after year, raise awareness – and money – and bring community together in support of access to care for everyone in our region.
It’s a big challenge. Okay, it’s an enormous challenge. And when you take on something enormous, it helps to give it bold colors, strong graphics, and clear language. And it doesn’t hurt to make it like a game, a fun and engaging challenge that isn’t too daunting and has the visual tools to track your accomplishments. Using the hashtag #iendstigma in social media gives people a place to keep up with the participant community.
It’s year one, so I can’t tell you how this does in year five. But I can challenge you to MOVE, because mental and physical health are one in the same, to TALK to your circle about mental wellness and stigma, and to keep going so everyone has the opportunity to THRIVE.
Join us at fifty2endstigma.org. Or you can support our team without taking a single step: https://www.fifty2endstigma.org/b52s
Drake Creative, LLC