Stigma Stops When We Start Talking

Each morning, take a moment to check in with yourself and reflect on how you're feeling emotionally. Consider factors such as your mood, stress level, and overall well-being.

Based on how you're feeling, choose the side of the bracelet that best represents your emotional state at the moment:

If you're struggling and feeling like the day is particularly challenging so far, flip the bracelet to the side that says, "Today feels hard."

• Remember, you define what “challenging” or “hard” may look like. This is your journey. Our hope is that sharing your experience that day may help to create a more empathetic environment that makes the challenging day feel more manageable. We also hope your vulnerability may help validate other’s experiences when they may not feel comfortable sharing theirs.

If you're feeling hopeful or encouraged and acknowledging the day as a good day, flip the bracelet to the side that says, "I count today as a good day."

• Keep in mind that you determine the definition of a “good” day and that it will vary for each of us. Your sharing creates space for open mental health conversations and may help others realize that connecting with others can make tough times feel a little lighter. Embracing a positive outlook isn't just about hope; it's a crucial factor in improving our mental well-being.

*If there's a day when you don't feel comfortable or safe sharing, it might be a day you choose not to wear the bracelet. But you have done the hard work ​​— checking in with yourself and acknowledging your feelings.

Wear the bracelet with your chosen message facing outward throughout the day. This serves as a visual reminder to yourself of your current emotional state and signals to others how you are showing up that day.

As you go about your day, periodically check in with yourself and reflect on how you're feeling. Use the bracelet as a tool to stay mindful of your emotions and to remind yourself that it's okay to feel what you feel.

Before bed, take another moment to reflect on your day and how your emotions may have shifted. If there has been a change, adjust the bracelet to reflect any changes in your emotional state.

Continue this daily ritual of checking in with yourself, choosing a side of the bracelet, and wearing it as a reminder of your emotional journey.

If you see someone wearing the bracelet, be attentive to the message displayed. Even the small gesture of noticing and acknowledging the bracelet can help the person feel seen. Show that you're attentive and are open to conversation.

Recognize the person's feelings by acknowledging them and affirming that it's okay to feel the way they do. Avoid judgment or minimizing their emotions. If you aren’t able to dedicate time to the individual or have a conversation, even a passing comment, like, “Today feels hard for me too,” or “Thanks for the reminder to count today as a good day,” can be validating and can make a significant difference in the day.

If you have the emotional capacity and time that day, ask open-ended questions to engage in a conversation. Approach the individual with empathy and sensitivity, acknowledging that wearing the bracelet may signify a need for support or recognition of their emotional state. If appropriate, ask gentle questions to validate the individual's experience and show that you're interested in understanding how they're feeling.

Respect the individual's boundaries and comfort level. Understand that they may not always want to engage in conversation or share their experiences, and that's okay. Keep in mind that how much an individual may share with you will depend on a variety of factors, like how well you know the person, the environment (e.g., work, school, at home), or their emotional capacity that day.

If you don't have the capacity to engage with the individual at that moment, it's okay to acknowledge that. Your emotional well-being is as important as the individual’s. Ask about other ways you can offer support, including simply being a supportive presence, being someone they can call on to join in self-care activities, or offering to accompany them in seeking help. Remember, the type of support will vary for the individual.