Testimonials

Naomi B.
NCSU ’25
“Advocating for mental health awareness holds a deeply personal meaning for me. My sister, who radiated joy and positivity every day, was quietly battling mental health struggles that no one quite understood until she was gone. Her loss was a heart breaking reminder of the stigma and lack of understanding that keep so many people from reaching out for help. She is the reason why I am committed to raising awareness – to break the silence, to encourage open conversations, and to ensure no one feels like they have to hide their pain from the world. In honoring my sister’s memory, I hope to inspire, change, and save lives, because no one should have to fight their battles alone.”

Emily B.
NCSU ’27
“Whether walking or volunteering in the 5k, Outrace the Stigma is so important to me because I have seen the impacts of mental health on people I love and see what people go through every day! I want to help spread awareness and resources to those all around because it truly does affect everyone in some way! It is key that we destigmatize mental illness to be able to openly talk about it and help those around us.”

Elli E.
NCSU ’28
“Outrace is important to me for a multitude of reasons. Mainly, though, it’s important to me because I love getting involved and helping others know that mental health IS important, and that every person has the right to mental health care, no matter the situation. Mental health affects everyone in some way, shape, and form, and with the changing times, it’s so important that as a community, we stick together and continue to share why mental health stigma should be fought against!”

Alex S.
NCSU ’27
“As college students, mental health is incredibly important and is often times ignored or neglected by students. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in things like classes and a busy social calendar that we can forget to take care of ourselves and those we care about. Advocating for mental health insures that our community is taken care of and supported through anything and everything that we may go through. Having open conversations about mental health and changing the stigma around it can help save lives.”