Alison Malmon's Mission: Transforming Mental Health Conversations on Campus
The goal of active minds chapters is to really bring mental health into the spotlight, the way physical health is, and to attract and educate not just those students who already care, not just those students who happen to be psychology majors...
Imagine losing a loved one to mental illness and turning that pain into a mission to help others. That's exactly what Alison Malmon did. In this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', hosted by Mary Woods, Alison shares her deeply personal journey that led to the creation of Active Minds, Inc. After her brother Brian's tragic suicide, Alison realized the dire need for open conversations about mental health on college campuses.
She founded Active Minds to combat the stigma surrounding mental illness and to encourage students to seek help early. Throughout the episode, Alison and Mary discuss the alarming prevalence of mental health issues among college students and the transformative impact of initiatives like Active Minds' Backpack Initiative. This program provides essential resources and support for students grappling with mental health challenges.
Alison passionately emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where students can share their stories and connect with peers who understand their struggles. The episode also highlights the crucial role of student involvement in promoting mental health awareness and education through Active Minds chapters. Alison's dedication to changing campus culture is evident as she talks about fostering environments that prioritize mental well-being. They wrap up the conversation by discussing the often-overlooked importance of sleep for mental health and productivity.
Alison's story is a powerful reminder of how one person's determination can spark a movement that changes lives. Tune in to hear how Active Minds is making a real difference on college campuses across the country.