Free Game Friday: Speak Up for Your Mental Health

Hello, Star Players!

This week for Free Game Friday, we're building on our focus on Suicide Prevention Month to empower you with a critical tool for your well-being: your voice. As a social impact enterprise, Celestial Content Creations is dedicated to uplifting our communities , and a huge part of that is providing you with the resources to protect and prioritize your mental health.

This article is inspired by the youth empowerment workshop, "Using the Power of Your Voice to Advocate for Your Mental Health," that we presented at the 2025 Texas Alliance of Black School Educators conference in Galveston, TX.

At Celestial Content Creations, we know that true empowerment comes from within, and using your voice is the first step toward advocating for yourself and your community. Our mission is to foster a self-reliance and liberation movement at scale, and that starts with understanding the importance of mental health. According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, mental health is "a state of well-being in which an individual...realizes their own capabilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and can contribute to their community."

So, what happens when that state of well-being is challenged? A mental health challenge occurs when there is a major change in a person's thinking, feeling, or behavior that interferes with their ability to live their life and doesn't go away quickly. Catching these changes early can be critical in saving a life.

It's time to become an advocate. You can start by recognizing the early signs in yourself or a loved one. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

Appearance: They may appear more tired, disheveled, or unkempt than usual.

Feelings: They may no longer enjoy hobbies, school, or activities they once loved.

Behavior: Look for an increased pattern of showing up late or canceling personal and professional commitments.

Thoughts: They may have difficulty concentrating or focusing at school, work, or home, and become more indecisive.

If you notice these signs, remember that speaking up is an act of empowerment. The way you communicate is crucial. Instead of using unhelpful phrases like, "You'll feel different tomorrow," "It's such a beautiful day outside, how can you feel so sad?" or "Pull yourself together," try to use helpful and compassionate language. Phrases like, "Something seems to be bothering you. Do you want to talk about it?" or "I am concerned about you" can open the door for a meaningful conversation. It's about showing empathy and a willingness to listen without judgment. As we discussed in our workshop, it's hard to understand exactly what another person is going through, but you can always acknowledge that what they are experiencing is distressing.

Remember, seeking help is not a weakness; it's a sign of courage and a powerful act of self-awareness and empowerment. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Help is available 24/7 across the United States.

Crisis Resources:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org.

SAMHSA's National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential treatment referral and information services.

Your voice matters, so use it to check in on yourself and others. A simple check-in can make a world of difference. By using your voice, you can help break down the stigma surrounding mental health, find support, and create a more understanding and compassionate community.

Ready to empower yourself with more tools for self-reliance? Purchase your own CCC Tiny Book of Affirmations card deck today and start unlocking your inner confidence. Remember, you are here for a reason and it is imperative to let your light shine!

All my best,

-Ariel