Even though you can’t physically see it like you could a bruise or a scratch or even a broken bone, mental health matters – it’s something we all experience, and one group of young adults in Vancouver called the ‘Rabble Rousers’ is on a mission to raise awareness and break the stigma.
With support from Coast Mental Health, the group has created a series of public service announcements (PSAs) made for young people by young people to broadcast a simple yet critical message: You are not alone.
Where compassion meets creativity
Comprising six PSAs, each short video was conceptualized, written, storyboarded, animated and shot by the Rabble Rousers themselves. While they all contain important individual messages, they also collectively form a longer-form feature entitled You Got This: PSA Series.
The videos cover six topics:
- Panic attacks
- When to ask for help
- Isolation
- How to be your own mental health advocate
- Suicide
- Psychosis
By combining personal experience with practical advice, the series offers a real, raw and honest presentation of how young adults are impacted by mental illness. Discussing their own experiences, the group also provides tips and support for anyone who may be experiencing the same struggles.
“I want people to get out of these videos that you’re not alone and that a lot of people out there suffer from things that you suffer from, as well,” member of the Rabble Rousers, Dayley explains.
“I think there’s still a lot of stigma around mental health. It’s getting better and more people are trying to speak up about it, but a lot of things are not understood because of the way movies or TV portray mental illness.”
Be brave, ask for help
A common theme presented throughout the videos is that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. They also support the message that, even though conversations surrounding mental health often feel uncomfortable, they are still incredibly important.
The videos highlight the value of knowing who has your back – whether it’s friends, family or another trustworthy resource – and how reaching out for support is not only a smart move but the first step in advocating for yourself.
This concept is especially important considering the stigmas that still exist around mental health, particularly the differences in how mental and physical health are viewed and discussed.
Be a part of the solution
Combining facts and personal experience, the members of the Rabble Rousers offer a refreshing and honest take on how mental illness can impact young adults and the importance of supporting one another.
While the videos are meant to be educational, the group also hopes that viewers feel inspired to take action, stand up against stigmas, and join the movement of telling those struggling: You are not alone.
“There’s still a lot of stigma against those with mental health issues,” describes member Sam. “I think it’s a bit disappointing because there’s so much that people can do to help themselves and help other people.”
You can watch the video here. The PSAs will also be shared on the Rabble Rousers’ TikTok channel in the coming months.
For more information on Coast Mental Health, its services and how you can help, visit coastmentalhealth.com.
