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CDC. (2024, September 26). Mental Health Resources. Mental Health. https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/caring/index.html

Cheng, W. (2024). Could Social Media Be a Means to Combat Mental Health Stigma?. International Journal of Information Systems and Social Change (IJISSC), 15(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.4018/IJISSC.356571

Feltner, Madeline E., "Toxic Positivity and Perceptions of Mental Health" (2023). Senior Theses. 607.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/senior_theses/607

Forcén, F. E., Vélez Flórez, M. C., Bido Medina, R., Zambrano, J., Pérez, J. H., Rodríguez, A. M., & Santos, L. H. (2023). Deconstructing Cultural Aspects of Mental Health Care in Hispanic/Latinx People. Psychiatric annals, 53(3), 127–132. https://doi.org/10.3928/00485713-20230215-02

Mahindru, A., Patil, P., & Agrawal, V. (2023). Role of physical activity on mental health and well-being: A review. Cureus, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.33475

Radin, S. (2021, August 4). How 'toxic positivity' took over the internet. Dazed. Retrieved November 30, 2022, from https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/53737/1/howtoxic-positivity-took-over-the-internet

‌Wibowo, R. S. The Answers Are Not Always Optimism: Overcoming Toxic Positivity During COVID-19 Outbreak.

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Mental health stigma involves negative attitudes and discrimination toward individuals experiencing mental illness. This stigma can prevent people, especially in Hispanic communities, from seeking care, talking openly about their experiences, or accessing support. It’s often fueled by cultural beliefs, misinformation, and social judgment. Addressing stigma is crucial to improving mental health outcomes, increasing access to care, and saving lives (Forcen, et. al, 2023).

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You are not alone..

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Social media has helped normalize the conversation through campaigns. Giving platforms to advocates and therapists.

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Toxic positivity refers to the unrealistic expectation to always seem cheerful, even during tough or painful experiences. This mindset often downplays or dismisses genuine emotions in favor of constant positivity, which can negatively affect mental health by overlooking people’s real challenges (Wibowo, 2020). On social media, influencers often share “good vibes only” messages to keep up a likable and marketable image (Radin, 2021). Although these posts may appear uplifting, they can actually discourage people from being honest about their feelings, leading to emotional suppression and potential psychological harm (Feltner, 2023).

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It doesn't matter how old you are, self-care is important in all stages of life.

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Prevent mental health conditions before they develop or worsen, exercise has been shown to reduce risk of depression/anxiety (Mahindru, et al, 2023).

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How Social Media Has Impacted Mental Health

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How Social Media Has Impacted Mental Health

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Positive Influence on Mental Health Literacy: Social media platforms have become spaces where users learn more about mental health, engage with advocates, and reduce stigma (Cheng, 2024).

Support for Mental Health Advocacy: Influencers and organizations use these platforms to spread awareness and foster acceptance.

Algorithmic Reinforcement: People interested in mental health are shown more content on the topic, which can deepen their understanding and support.

Educational Tool: Social media is increasingly seen as a valuable tool for education and narrative storytelling, especially for younger audiences.

Potential to Reduce Stigma: Because of its reach and relatability, social media could play a major role in normalizing mental health conversations and breaking stigma.

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Objectives

Raise awareness about mental health stigma and its effects by posting and sharing content.

Promote emotional honesty and reduce toxic positivity.

Encourage users to share real, unfiltered experiences with mental health.

Connect users to resources for support and education.

Target Platforms

Instagram (visual storytelling, reels)

Post Caption Idea:

"Not every day is a good vibes only day. And that’s okay.
Sharing your truth is stronger than faking a smile.
Let’s talk mental health, without the filters. #MindMatters"

Timeline:

Week 1: Awareness & Education (teach definition of toxic positivity)

Week 2: Share Your Story Challenge

Week 3: Coping Tools & Resources (promote therapy, hotlines, journaling)

Required Tools:

Instagram

Mental Health Resources