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Authority Magazine

In-depth Interviews with Authorities in Business, Pop Culture, Wellness, Social Impact, and Tech. We use interviews to draw out stories that are both empowering and actionable.

Mental Health Champions: Why & How Alexandra Miles Of Project Blackbird Is Helping To Champion Mental Wellness

25 min readJul 21, 2024

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Create Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Society should strive to create environments where people feel safe to discuss and address their mental health. This can be achieved in workplaces, schools, and community organizations by fostering inclusive and supportive policies. Training on mental health awareness and having accessible mental health resources are essential steps.

As a part of our series about Mental Health Champions helping to promote mental wellness, I had the pleasure to interview the founder of Project Blackbird, Alexandra Miles. PROJECT BLACKBIRD is a non-profit 501(c)(3) touring event and film screening that aims to de-stigmatize eating disorders and mental health conversation within underrepresented communities. Our mission is to connect audiences of different communities to rid ourselves of shame surrounding mental health.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?

Absolutely! I’m a true DC native — born and raised right in the heart of the capital. My family is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. We have roots that span across South America and Europe, and this rich tapestry of heritage has always been a big part of my life. Growing up in a family that was both religious and deeply diverse gave me a unique perspective from an early age.

My parents divorced when I was quite young, but I remained in the DC area throughout my childhood. After I graduated, I embarked on a journey that took me to various places across the country — Boston, Los Angeles, Savannah — before eventually returning to DC. This frequent moving allowed me to experience different communities and environments, broadening my understanding of the world.

As a child, I was constantly exploring my identity, navigating the blend of my ancestral roots while finding my place in American society. My upbringing was filled with stories and traditions from both my parents and grandparents — stories that made me feel immense amounts of pride, but also some stories that were hard to hold and receive. They have definitely shaped who I am today.

You are currently leading an initiative that is helping to promote mental wellness. Can you tell us a bit more specifically about what you are trying to address?

Of course! Project Blackbird was born from my personal journey through mental health challenges, particularly my experience with an eating disorder. My path crossed with Kendra Williams, current PROJECT BLACKBIRD partner, at an eating disorder treatment center, where we both spent months with not just eating disorder recovery, but also battling co-occurring mental health issues. We both came from communities where mental health struggles were often shrouded in shame. This lack of open dialogue left us feeling isolated and confused, unsure of how to articulate our experiences or seek help.

In our communities, discussing mental health wasn’t encouraged; it was silenced. Kendra and I felt this keenly and realized how pervasive this issue was when we started talking to others. We discovered that many people from diverse backgrounds shared this same sense of isolation and stigma when it came to mental health. This realization sparked the idea for Project Blackbird.

I’m not a clinician or a mental health practitioner. I don’t have the answers, and I am still on my own journey. What I do have, is the ability to be honest and vulnerable, and to help create a safer environment for others to do the same. When I started PROJECT BLACKBIRD Inc., I wanted to create a platform that could help break this cycle of silence and stigma. Project Blackbird’s mission is to de-stigmatize mental health discussions, making it safer for individuals to acknowledge their struggles and seek support. Through our touring events and film screenings, we aim to connect with audiences across different communities, helping them understand that they are not alone. We strive to create a space where it’s okay to say, “I’m not okay,” and to facilitate the journey from awareness to acceptance and, ultimately, to recovery. Our goal is to bridge the gap between struggling and finding the resources and support needed for healing.

Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?

My passion for this cause comes from my own personal journey with mental health and eating disorders. At one point, I sought help without really understanding what was happening to me. I had become overwhelmed by obsessive thoughts about food, which I initially dismissed because I’ve always been a foodie. When I finally reached out to a psychiatrist, I described my relentless preoccupation with food and asked for help. He suggested that I might be dealing with an eating disorder, a notion that I found almost laughable at the time. I told him, “There’s no way I have an eating disorder; I love food and eat three times a day.” In my mind, this was not the ‘textbook’ definition of anorexia that I had read about in school.

His suggestion led me to look deeper into my behavior and seek the help of a dietitian. But what I didn’t realize was how malnourished and damaged my body had become. I thought I was just following societal norms and connecting with friends through diet culture practices — counting calories, compulsively exercising, and cutting out food groups. It felt like I was participating in something communal and I felt accepted. I started taking spin classes, feeling proud that I was engaging in activities that made me feel connected and involved.

However, this lifestyle ultimately caused significant harm to my body. My situation became so severe that I wasn’t given the option to merely consult with a dietitian. Instead, I was told that I needed to go directly to inpatient care because my physical state was critically compromised. It was a startling realization that something was profoundly wrong, far beyond what I had understood.

I entered inpatient treatment expecting it to be a brief, intensive intervention, but it turned into an eight-month journey before I transitioned to outpatient care. This extensive period of treatment highlighted the complexity and seriousness of eating disorders and the resilience of our bodies as they strive to survive.

My experience opened my eyes to the diverse ways eating disorders can manifest and the pervasive impact they have. It’s crucial to understand that no one asks for an eating disorder or any mental health struggle. These conditions are incredibly real and multifaceted, often intertwined with trauma, self-perception, childhood experiences and/or societal pressures. Recognizing this, I hope to shed light on the importance of compassion and understanding towards anyone experiencing such struggles.

Through Project Blackbird, I aim to foster a safe space for these conversations, helping others feel less isolated in their journeys. Each person’s experience with mental health is unique, but the common thread is the very real and challenging nature of these struggles. My hope is to promote awareness, encourage open dialogue, and ultimately, support people in finding their path to recovery.

Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. They don’t get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?

For me, the inception of Project Blackbird was deeply intertwined with my passion for storytelling and my personal journey. It all started with a film project that I envisioned as an actor and filmmaker. I wanted to create a film that could tell a powerful, personal story. Working with a brilliant writer, I was inspired to share the narrative of someone who had profoundly impacted my recovery journey: Kendra Williams. Kendra was a fellow patient I met during treatment, and her quiet strength and our deep connection were instrumental in my own healing process. She became what I like to call a “hidden hero” — someone whose influence is powerful yet often unspoken.

This realization was my “Aha Moment.” The connection I felt with Kendra during our shared struggles made me understand the importance of feeling understood and not alone. I wanted to share this story with the world, not for the accolades, but to extend that sense of connection and understanding to others who might be grappling with similar issues.

Initially, the film was just that — a film. But when someone asked me why I made it, I reflected on its deeper purpose. It wasn’t just about creating something to enter into festivals; it was about fostering a real impact. I wanted to create a lasting dialogue around the themes of connection, recovery, and the unsung heroes in our lives. This was the true mission: to make people feel seen and supported in their mental health journeys.

Instead of merely submitting the film to festivals and waiting for it to be possibly forgotten, I decided to take a more active role in shaping its impact. This led to the birth of Project Blackbird as an organization. It wasn’t just about the film anymore; it was about creating a platform that could continually foster these important conversations and connections.

One of the pivotal moments in shaping Project Blackbird was a suggestion from Amanda Kulkoski, the Director of Photography for the film. She proposed a journal prompt activity for the audience, where attendees would anonymously exchange journals to symbolize exchanging their burdens — like trading a paper bag filled with problems (a concept mentioned in the film). This simple yet profound idea encapsulated the essence of what I wanted to achieve: fostering connections and understanding among people who might otherwise feel isolated in their struggles.

Project Blackbird has evolved organically from there. It’s been a collaborative journey with countless individuals contributing their insights and support — family, friends, and many others who connected deeply with the project’s mission. Each day, it continues to grow and adapt as we listen to feedback and engage with our community.

In essence, Project Blackbird wasn’t just something I created; it’s something that grew through the collective effort and passion of everyone involved. The organization’s mission — to de-stigmatize mental health conversations and support recovery journeys — resonates deeply with many, and it’s this shared commitment that continues to drive us forward.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?

One of the most profound experiences I’ve had since starting Project Blackbird happened at one of our earliest events, held at a church. This event was both incredibly impactful and deeply challenging for me. During the event, I found myself connecting with several individuals on a very personal level — at least seven or eight people came up to me in tears, sharing their struggles and pain for the first time. Each of these individuals confided in me stories they had never told anyone before.

It was a powerful moment, but also an overwhelming one. I felt an immense weight of trust and responsibility as these people shared their deeply personal battles. It was as if I was holding a part of their pain, a pain that had been hidden away for so long. This experience underscored the necessity and urgency of the work we’re doing with Project Blackbird. It highlighted how much people need a safe space to open up about their mental health struggles.

At that point, I was deeply invested in the project, often working sleepless nights and pouring my own resources into it. There were times when the weight of it all felt like too much, and I found myself on the brink of wanting to give up. I would voice my doubts and frustrations to my partner or family, almost as if I needed someone to reassure me to keep pushing forward.

However, this event was a turning point. Seeing the impact it had on those attendees — their tears, their newfound sense of relief from sharing their burden — made me realize the profound importance of our mission. It reinforced the belief that even if we change just one person’s life, that change can ripple outwards in countless ways. The shift in perspective that attendees experienced meant they could now see mental health struggles, both in themselves and in others, with more understanding and compassion.

One particularly important lesson from that day was the significant role of faith-based communities in addressing mental health stigma. Many people from these communities face immense pressure and judgment when it comes to mental health issues, and this event showed me how critical it is to reach out to them.

This experience also taught me about the importance of self-care. While I still engage with people at our events and listen to their stories, I’ve learned that I need to protect my own mental health to continue this work effectively. That’s why we now provide resources and free therapy to ensure people get the support they need, even if I can’t be there for everyone individually.

Even years later, I continue to receive emails and messages from members of that church group. Their ongoing support and gratitude remind me of the lasting impact of that day and reinforce the importance of Project Blackbird’s mission. It’s these connections and the knowledge that our work is making a real difference that fuel my determination to keep going, no matter how challenging it may be.

None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?

Absolutely. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the support of many wonderful people who have played vital roles in the success of Project Blackbird. One of the most influential figures in this journey has been Amanda Kulkoski, who was actually a professor at the university I attended. We first connected during my time as a student, and she has been a professional mentor based in Savannah, Georgia.

Amanda’s impact on Project Blackbird has been immense. As the Director of Photography (DP) for our initial film, she brought not only her technical expertise but also a deep, personal understanding of the project’s themes. Her suggestions, insights, and support were instrumental from the very beginning. Amanda was one of the key players who truly believed in the mission of Project Blackbird. She helped to shape the visual storytelling of our film and brought innovative ideas that made our work more impactful. For instance, she proposed the journal exchange activity that became central to our events, where audience members anonymously swap journals to symbolize exchanging their burdens — an idea that profoundly resonated with our goal of fostering connection and empathy.

But Amanda was just one of many champions who have rallied around Project Blackbird. From actors, athletes, and artists to everyday people — moms, dads, and students — there has been a diverse and passionate community supporting us. Each person brought their own unique connection to the themes of eating disorders and mental health, whether through personal experiences or those of loved ones. Their authenticity and eagerness to contribute have been incredibly inspiring.

This widespread support showed me that Project Blackbird was much bigger than just my vision. It was becoming a collective effort, driven by a community that believed deeply in the cause. Whether it was friends offering their skills, family members providing encouragement, or complete strangers connecting with our mission, each contribution has been crucial.

One particularly touching story was from the early days of our events. I remember a father who attended one of our screenings and came up to me afterwards. He shared that his daughter had been struggling with an eating disorder, and he had felt helpless and alone in trying to support her. The film and the subsequent discussion provided him with a new perspective and a sense of hope. He thanked us for creating a space where he could better understand his daughter’s struggles and find a community that supported them both.

This kind of feedback reinforces why Project Blackbird is so important. It’s not just about sharing a story; it’s about creating a supportive network that helps people feel less isolated in their struggles.

So, while I may have founded Project Blackbird, it’s the collective energy and commitment of countless individuals that truly bring this organization to life. Their influence, encouragement, and belief in our mission keep us moving forward, making a real difference in the lives of those we reach.

According to Mental Health America’s report, over 44 million Americans have a mental health condition. Yet there’s still a stigma about mental illness. Can you share a few reasons you think this is so?

The persistent stigma surrounding mental illness, despite its prevalence, is a complex issue rooted in several factors. Based on my experiences and insights from leading Project Blackbird, I believe a few key reasons contribute to this stigma:

  1. Lack of Understanding and Education: Many people still hold outdated or simplistic views about mental health conditions. They may see mental illness as a personal failing or a character flaw rather than recognizing it as a legitimate medical condition that requires proper treatment and understanding. There is a significant gap in education regarding what mental health challenges truly entail, which leads to misconceptions and judgments. For example, eating disorders are often mislabeled as “vanity diseases,” reducing them to issues of appearance rather than acknowledging the deep emotional and psychological struggles that underpin them. This lack of comprehensive understanding perpetuates stigma because it frames mental health issues as something that could be easily fixed or avoided, rather than recognizing the complexities involved.
  2. Cultural and Community Silence: In many communities, mental health struggles are not openly discussed. There is a cultural silence that surrounds these topics, often rooted in the belief that talking about mental health is a sign of weakness or failure. In my own journey, and through the work with Project Blackbird, I’ve seen how this silence can be particularly strong in underrepresented communities where discussing mental health can be considered taboo. This societal norm of keeping mental health struggles hidden only exacerbates feelings of isolation and shame for those who are suffering. It creates an environment where individuals feel unsafe to share their experiences or seek help, thus reinforcing the stigma.
  3. Misrepresentation in Media and Society: Media often portrays mental illness in a sensationalized or negative light. Characters with mental health issues are frequently depicted as dangerous or unstable, which distorts public perception. These portrayals can lead to fear and misunderstanding, further stigmatizing those who live with mental health conditions. Additionally, success stories of recovery or management of mental illness are less frequently highlighted, contributing to a skewed perception that mental health challenges are insurmountable or define a person entirely. This bias in representation neglects the everyday reality of millions who manage their conditions successfully and live fulfilling lives.
  4. Internalized Stigma: Many individuals with mental health conditions internalize the stigma they encounter, which can be profoundly damaging. They may begin to see their struggles as shameful or as something they should be able to control or hide. This internalized stigma can prevent people from seeking the help they need, prolonging their suffering and reinforcing the cycle of silence and misunderstanding. When I shared my own struggles with eating disorders, I realized how deeply I had internalized the shame associated with my condition, believing that I was alone and somehow at fault for my struggles. This internal battle is a significant barrier to seeking help and accepting oneself.
  5. Societal Pressure and Vanity Misconceptions: Society often places a high value on appearance, success, and self-sufficiency, creating immense pressure to conform to certain standards. Mental health issues can be seen as antithetical to these ideals, which contributes to the stigma. Particularly with conditions like eating disorders, there’s a misconception that they are about vanity or a superficial desire to look a certain way. This misunderstanding ignores the deeper psychological and emotional roots of these disorders. Even if someone’s behaviors seem driven by a desire for external approval, it’s crucial to understand the underlying pain and need for acceptance that fuel these behaviors. Society tends to judge without exploring these deeper issues, thus perpetuating the stigma.

In summary, the stigma around mental health is perpetuated by a combination of ignorance, cultural silence, misrepresentation, and societal pressures. To break this cycle, we need to foster greater empathy, understanding, and open dialogue about mental health. Recognizing that no one asks for these struggles and that they stem from a complex interplay of factors is essential in changing the narrative and reducing stigma.

In your experience, what should a) individuals b) society, and c) the government do to better support people suffering from mental illness?

Supporting people suffering from mental illness requires a multifaceted approach involving individuals, society, and the government. Each has a crucial role to play in creating a more understanding and supportive environment for mental health. Here’s how I think each can contribute:

a) Individuals:

  1. Educate Themselves and Others: Individuals need to take the initiative to educate themselves about mental health conditions and the diverse ways they can manifest. Understanding that mental illness can look different for everyone and recognizing the signs can foster empathy and reduce judgment. It’s about breaking down those stereotypes and acknowledging that mental health issues are not character flaws or personal failings.
  2. Practice and Promote Empathy: Empathy is crucial. It’s about genuinely trying to understand someone else’s experience without judgment. When someone opens up about their mental health struggles, listen with compassion and validate their feelings. Avoid dismissive comments like “Just snap out of it” or “It’s all in your head,” as these can be deeply harmful.
  3. Encourage Open Conversations: Individuals should actively participate in and encourage open dialogues about mental health. Sharing personal experiences can help others feel less alone and reduce the shame associated with mental illness. This can be as simple as checking in on friends and family and being a reliable source of support.
  4. Support Seeking Professional Help: Encouraging loved ones to seek professional help when needed is vital. Be supportive in their journey to find the right resources, whether it’s therapy, medication, or support groups. It’s also important to normalize the process of seeking help as part of taking care of oneself, just like you would for any physical health issue.

b) Society:

  1. Change the Narrative in Media and Culture: Media plays a significant role in shaping societal perceptions of mental health. We need more accurate, nuanced, and empathetic portrayals of mental health issues in films, TV shows, and other media. Highlighting stories of resilience, recovery, and the everyday realities of living with mental illness can help destigmatize these conditions.
  2. Create Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Society should strive to create environments where people feel safe to discuss and address their mental health. This can be achieved in workplaces, schools, and community organizations by fostering inclusive and supportive policies. Training on mental health awareness and having accessible mental health resources are essential steps.
  3. Celebrate and Integrate Diversity in Mental Health Conversations: It’s crucial to recognize that mental health experiences and needs can vary greatly across different communities. Society should celebrate this diversity and ensure that mental health conversations and services are inclusive and respectful of all cultural backgrounds and experiences.
  4. Promote Self-Care and Wellbeing: Encouraging practices that promote overall wellbeing and self-care can have a positive impact on mental health. This includes advocating for a balanced lifestyle, recognizing the importance of rest, and providing resources for stress management and coping skills.

c) Government:

  1. Increase Funding for Mental Health Services: Governments need to allocate more resources to mental health services, ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, quality care. This includes funding for therapy, support groups, crisis intervention, and long-term care facilities.
  2. Implement Comprehensive Mental Health Education: Integrating mental health education into school curriculums can equip young people with the knowledge and tools to understand and manage their mental health. This education should include recognizing the signs of mental illness and knowing how to seek help.
  3. Develop and Enforce Anti-Stigma Campaigns: Government-led initiatives to reduce stigma can have a widespread impact. These campaigns should aim to raise awareness, promote positive attitudes towards mental health, and highlight stories of recovery and resilience.
  4. Improve Mental Health Policies and Legislation: Governments should enact and enforce policies that protect the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. This includes anti-discrimination laws in employment and housing, as well as policies that ensure equitable access to mental health services.
  5. Support Research and Innovation: Investing in research to understand the causes of mental health conditions and develop new treatments and interventions is essential. Government support for innovative programs and services can lead to more effective ways to address mental health needs across the population.

In essence, supporting those suffering from mental illness requires a collective effort. Individuals must strive to be compassionate and informed allies, society needs to foster inclusive and supportive environments, and governments must ensure that robust, accessible, and equitable mental health services are available to all. By working together, we can create a world where mental health is valued, understood, and prioritized.

What are your 5 strategies you use to promote your own well-being and mental wellness? If you can, please give a story or example for each.

1. Walks in the Sunshine:

Strategy: Spending time outdoors, especially in the sunshine, is crucial for my mental health.

Example: For me, it’s essential to live somewhere warm and sunny because I struggle with seasonal depression in darker, colder environments. The simple act of walking outside and soaking up the sun revitalizes me. It’s my go-to way to lift my spirits and regain energy.

Story: There are days when I feel overwhelmed or down, and stepping outside for a walk in the sunshine makes a world of difference. It’s a non-negotiable part of my self-care routine. The warmth and light rejuvenate me and help reset my mood. I’ve realized that living in a sunny place isn’t just a preference; it’s a necessity for my mental health.

2. Learning to Say No and Setting Boundaries:

Strategy: Setting boundaries and learning to say no are vital for my well-being and preventing burnout.

Example: As a people pleaser, I used to overcommit myself, which often led to disappointment when I couldn’t meet everyone’s expectations, including my own. I’ve learned that saying no and not overpromising helps me manage my time better and reduces self-criticism.

Story: When I first started Project Blackbird, I would say yes to every opportunity and request, stretching myself too thin. It was exhausting and left me feeling overwhelmed. Learning to set boundaries has been liberating. Now, I focus on what truly matters and take care of my mental health, which makes me more effective and present in my work.

3. Setting My Own Precedents:

Strategy: I believe in leading myself and setting my own precedents instead of relying on external validation or direction.

Example: When I founded Project Blackbird, I didn’t have a clear roadmap or existing model to follow. Instead of feeling constrained by this, I saw it as an opportunity to create my own path. The opportunities were boundless: I could create whatever I envisioned and dreamt of!

Story: I keep the phrase “set your own precedents” on my computer as a daily reminder to trust my judgment and vision. This approach has been key to maintaining my mental health. I value the freedom to dream and create from my unique perspective, rather than being swayed by what others expect or dictate. It’s empowering to know that I can lead myself.

4. Taking Care of My Puppies:

Strategy: Spending time with my puppies is a joyful and calming part of my routine for mental wellness.

Example: My dogs bring me immense comfort and happiness. Their presence is a soothing balm for stress and anxiety. Whether it’s playing, cuddling, or just having them around, they provide a joyful distraction that helps me stay grounded.

Story: On difficult days, my dogs are my source of comfort. Just being around them makes a huge difference in my mood. Their playful energy and unconditional love remind me to take a break and enjoy the simple things. They are a vital part of my daily life and contribute significantly to my mental well-being.

5. Breakfast for Dinner:

Strategy: I use the simple ritual of making breakfast for dinner as a way to reset and change my mindset.

Example: When I’m having a particularly bad day, instead of waiting for the next morning to start fresh, I make breakfast foods for dinner. This little ritual helps me signal to myself that it’s possible to turn the day around, no matter what time it is.

Story: Recently, I’ve embraced the idea of having breakfast for dinner when everything seems to go wrong. Preparing something like pancakes or eggs in the evening helps me reframe the day and provides a comforting reset. It’s a tangible way to take control and remind myself that I can change my outlook at any moment. This simple act has become a powerful tool for turning my day around.

These strategies have been transformative for my mental health, allowing me to maintain balance and well-being even during challenging times.

What are your favorite books, podcasts, or resources that inspire you to be a mental health champion?

Favorite Books, Podcasts, or Resources:

1. The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield:

Overview: This book is a powerful blend of adventure and spiritual wisdom, told through a captivating narrative that reads almost like a fairy tale. It’s not just a self-help book but an engaging story that weaves in deep, thought-provoking insights about life and personal growth.

Impact on Me: I’ve been reading “The Celestine Prophecy” recently, and it has started to profoundly shift my mindset. The way it intertwines a true narrative with a fictional story allows the lessons to resonate on a deeper level. It has challenged me to rethink my place in the world, my relationships, and the generational dynamics within my family. This book beautifully explores our connection to the universe and to each other, and I find its approach both thrilling and deeply impactful. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a mix of adventure and introspection.

Story: As I’ve been diving into this book, I’ve found myself reflecting on my upbringing and the relationships I’ve had with my parents and grandparents. It’s made me reconsider how these relationships have shaped my views on belonging and my purpose. The narrative encourages a sense of wonder and curiosity about life’s interconnectedness, which aligns closely with the values I hold dear in my work with Project Blackbird.

2. Project Blackbird Resources:

Overview: One of the core inspirations for me comes from the very resources and connections we cultivate through Project Blackbird. Engaging with stories, experiences, and the collective wisdom of those who participate in our events keeps me motivated and inspired.

Impact on Me: Being part of Project Blackbird is like constantly reading and learning from a living book of human experience. The stories I hear and the people I meet through this journey provide endless insights and encouragement. They remind me daily of the importance of connection, empathy, and understanding in mental health.

Story: During one of our early events, I was deeply moved by the vulnerability and trust people shared. The courage of those who opened up about their struggles and the support they found in our community solidified my belief in the work we’re doing. It’s moments like these that reinforce why I’m committed to being a mental health champion.

3. Podcasts and Online Communities:

Overview: I frequently listen to podcasts and participate in online communities that focus on mental health, personal growth, and storytelling. These platforms offer a wealth of knowledge and personal stories that resonate with my own experiences and inspire me to continue advocating for mental wellness.

Impact on Me: Podcasts like “The Mental Illness Happy Hour” and “The Hilarious World of Depression” offer honest, relatable discussions on mental health that break down stigma and provide comfort. They remind me that we’re all in this together, navigating our unique paths with shared struggles and triumphs.

Story: Listening to these podcasts has been like having a supportive friend who understands the complexities of mental health. They often provide me with new perspectives and coping strategies, which I integrate into my own life and share with our community at Project Blackbird.

4. Engaging with Art and Stories:

Overview: As an actor and filmmaker, I find inspiration in the arts — whether it’s through movies, theater, or literature. Stories that delve into the human experience and explore themes of mental health and resilience resonate deeply with me.

Impact on Me: Engaging with art allows me to see different facets of the human condition and understand mental health from various angles. It’s a source of empathy and creativity that fuels my passion for storytelling and advocacy.

Story: Creating the film that sparked the inception of Project Blackbird was a profound experience. It taught me how powerful storytelling can be in fostering connection and understanding. Every story I encounter, whether through film or literature, adds layers to my perspective on mental health and strengthens my resolve to make a difference.

5. Nature and Mindfulness Practices:

Overview: Besides books and stories, I find immense inspiration and solace in nature and mindfulness practices. Taking time to be present, whether through walks in the sunshine or moments of quiet reflection, is essential for my mental well-being.

Impact on Me: Nature’s tranquility — even the simple things, like a weeded garden, or a plain patch of grass, make me feel grounded. Mindfulness helps me stay centered and manage the stress that comes with leading a mental health organization.

Story: On challenging days, stepping outside and feeling the warmth of the sun on my face or listening to the birds sing helps me reconnect with the world around me. These simple moments of mindfulness remind me of the importance of taking care of myself so that I can continue to support others effectively.

These resources and practices are not just sources of inspiration; they are integral to my journey as a mental health champion. They provide the knowledge, empathy, and resilience needed to keep advocating for mental wellness and breaking down the barriers of stigma.

If you could tell other people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?

We focus so much on what success means to us and comes from the work ethic — set your own precedent and be that leader. Dream what you want it to look like. Dream big, keep pushing. Put it out there. We are self preserving. We are doing the best we can.

How can our readers follow you online?

Instagram: You can connect with me personally on Instagram at @alexandra.smiles. I love to engage with the community and am open to hearing from anyone interested in mental health and my journey.

Project Blackbird:

Instagram: Follow Project Blackbird on Instagram at @projectblackbirdfilm. Here, you’ll find updates on upcoming events, inspirational posts, and valuable mental health resources.

Website: Visit the Project Blackbird website at www.projectblackbirdinc.org for comprehensive information about the organization. You’ll find ways to support their mission, including donating to fund free therapy for students or inviting Project Blackbird to your campus.

Support and Engagement:

Hashtag Campaign: Join the movement to destigmatize mental health by using the hashtag #shedshame on social media. This campaign encourages open conversations about mental health and aims to eliminate the associated shame.

Support Project Blackbird: There are multiple ways to support Project Blackbird’s mission:

Financial Support: Donations help fund free therapy for students and support the logistics of their tour across various college campuses.

Non-Financial Support: You can help by spreading the word, inviting us to your campus, or suggesting panelists for our events.

Engagement Opportunities:

Tour Participation: Project Blackbird is touring around 40 to 50 college campuses. Stay updated on their Instagram and website to see if they’ll be visiting a campus near you.

Contact: If you’re interested in having Project Blackbird at your institution or want to connect for other reasons, reach out via our website or social media or email our PR team at www.zebrapublicrelations.com at lauryn@zebra.nu. Alexandra and her team are eager to connect, share their mission, and have a lasting impact on the mental health community.

This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!

About The Interviewer: Eden Gold, is a youth speaker, keynote speaker, founder of the online program Life After High School, and host of the Real Life Adulting Podcast. Being America’s rising force for positive change, Eden is a catalyst for change in shaping the future of education. With a lifelong mission of impacting the lives of 1 billion young adults, Eden serves as a practical guide, aiding young adults in honing their self-confidence, challenging societal conventions, and crafting a strategic roadmap towards the fulfilling lives they envision.

Do you need a dynamic speaker, or want to learn more about Eden’s programs? Click here: https://bit.ly/EdenGold.

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Authority Magazine
Authority Magazine

Published in Authority Magazine

In-depth Interviews with Authorities in Business, Pop Culture, Wellness, Social Impact, and Tech. We use interviews to draw out stories that are both empowering and actionable.

Eden Gold
Eden Gold

Written by Eden Gold

Youth speaker, keynote speaker, founder of Life After High School, and host of the Real Life Adulting Podcast

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