July is recognized as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, dedicated to highlighting the unique mental health challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities.
This month serves as a reminder of the critical importance of mental health advocacy, and one individual making a significant impact in this area is Brandarius Johnson, a Las Vegas native.
Johnson is a mental health advocate and social entrepreneur who draws on his own experiences to inspire others. He faced profound challenges following the tragic loss of his girlfriend to suicide while in college, an event that deeply affected his mental health.
In overcoming this adversity, Johnson turned to a combination of community support, his faith, and physical fitness to navigate his healing journey.
His openness about mental health issues, particularly in public settings, highlights both his vulnerability and a courageous approach toward a topic often stigmatized, especially among men.
“I have been blessed to have a platform,” Johnson stated, emphasizing his commitment to using it for mental health awareness, particularly among youth.
His dynamic approach includes direct engagement with young people in schools across the valley, where he shares impactful messages about hope and mental wellness.
Audience members often leave his presentations in tears or with a renewed appreciation for their loved ones, as his passion for this crucial work resonates deeply with listeners.
Recognizing the profound impact of his local efforts, Johnson aims to extend his reach nationwide.
He has established Be the Hope Academy, a digital platform aimed at equipping educators with tools to support students’ mental health and foster emotional intelligence and inclusive school environments.
This innovative program is designed to be engaging and accessible, promoting overall emotional well-being among students.
In conjunction with this initiative, Johnson will embark on the “Be the Hope Tour,” a national school assembly series where he will share his personal story with students.
Educational institutions across the country can book Johnson for in-person events that focus on resilience and emotional growth, further amplifying the importance of mental health dialogue.
In addition to these transformative initiatives, Johnson founded Heart 2 Give, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and develop mental strength through community programs and educational workshops.
Furthermore, he leads Day1ambition.com—a personal development platform that empowers people to lead purposeful lives and confront adversity head-on.
In 2022, Johnson published his memoir, “Mental Hope: There’s No Surgery for Depression,” where he reflects on grief, loss, and the healing process.
The memoir emphasizes the power of vulnerability and the necessity of a support system during difficult times, making it a significant contribution to mental health literature.
At the core of Johnson’s mission is his empowering mantra: “Every day is Day 1.”
This philosophy encourages individuals to greet each day with renewed strength and the understanding that personal growth is always possible.
Through his various initiatives, Johnson acts as a guiding light for students, educators, and the broader community, motivating them to rise above challenges and thrive.
His work serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of mental health advocacy, particularly within underserved communities.
For more information about Johnson and to book a school assembly, visit brandariusjohnson.com.
Dr. Sheldon Jacobs, a licensed mental health professional in Las Vegas, encourages community engagement in mental health awareness and can be contacted at [email protected].
Follow @drjacobs33 on X and Instagram for more insights.
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