College students across America are facing greater mental health challenges than ever before. A third of college students feel anxious or depressed. Seventy-five percent of mental health conditions begin by age 24. Despite these staggering stats, students are not seeking help. Why? Stigma.
Enter NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore’s #IWILLLISTEN campaign:
#IWILLLISTEN is a weeklong anti-stigma campaign taking place on every college campus in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore works with each campus partner to create a robust week of activities, where you’ll see open mic nights, bonfires, art shows, resource fairs, storytelling, podcasts, trauma workshops, and support groups. And most importantly? Students across our community will pledge to listen—and learn how to support each other.
Interested in bringing this free program to your college campus, trade school or grad program?
History
Founded by NAMI New York City in 2013, and activated by NAMI Metro Baltimore in 2016, I Will Listen has reached more than 14,000 students.
Since 2016, the I Will Listen campaign has grown from 3 to 17 campus partners in the Metropolitan Baltimore region, and we’ve even brought it to workplaces. In 2023, NAMI Metro Baltimore will implement its 9th annual I Will Listen campaign during Mental Illness Awareness Week, October 6-12, 2024.