This year has demanded a lot of each of us. And we’ve all been finding our own ways to cope.
But despite the uncertainty, something profound has been happening on YouTube. People are coming together to support each other, and creators are doing what they do best: showing up for their communities. Whether it’s pausing to check in, celebrate a moment of joy, reflect on ways to find calm, or simply express vulnerability, creators are sharing their expertise, stories, passions, and a little bit more of themselves. And these simple acts are making a difference.
On World Mental Health Day — observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness of and mobilize efforts toward mental health around the world — we want to celebrate creators and the community they foster on YouTube.
Thank you to the licensed mental health professionals on the platform for sharing your expert knowledge and resources with us. And thank you to the many other creators — from yoga instructors to musicians, from gardeners to gamers — for providing emotional support and a sense of connection just by opening up and talking about what you’re going through. You are all helping us take better care of ourselves and each other.
Mental health exists on a spectrum from illness to wellness and, as such, impacts every single one of us. If you’re looking for ways to take care of yourself or a loved one but don’t know where to start, below are a few creators to explore. (For more mental health and well-being tips, check out this playlist.)
Meet Rashawnda James
She’s a licensed mental health therapist. Rashawnda’s channel is a place for you to learn about self-help, mental health, and life skills. Check out her video if you’re looking for strategies to overcome anxious feelings.
Meet Dr. Ali Mattu
He’s a clinical psychologist who makes videos about mental health and psychology that are accessible and fun. On his channel, The Psych Show, you’ll find mental health tutorials, product reviews, career advice for aspiring psychologists, and live hangouts with Dr. Ali. In this video, Dr. Mattu shares tips for better sleep.
Meet Koya Webb
She’s an internationally-recognized yoga teacher, personal trainer, holistic health and wellness coach, author, motivational speaker, and professional fitness model. Koya’s channel focuses on all aspects of wellness, and she’s dedicated to providing transformational support, both inside and out. Try her yoga exercises to support your well-being.
Meet Psych Hub
It’s an online education platform developed by licensed mental health professionals. This channel has reached thousands of new viewers since the onset of COVID-19 and the associated global mental health crisis. Peruse Psych Hub’s vast library of mental health content, including this video that supports positive self-talk. And stay tuned for Psych Hub’s upcoming podcast, which will provide healthy brain tips and the latest news in mental health advocacy and legislation. It'll also include a video version exclusively featured on YouTube.
Meet Glen Henry
He shares honest stories about the ins and outs of being a dad. Glen created his YouTube channel, Beleaf in Fatherhood, with the hope that real stories of fatherhood will bring connection and healing to people everywhere. In this video, Glen talks to his children about coping with trauma.
What creators are doing on YouTube is no small thing. Talking openly about coping matters. When creators promote healthy ways of coping and share adaptive skills and tips, they not only inspire us to try new strategies, but they also begin to chip away at the stigma associated with talking about and taking care of our mental health. And when stigma is reduced, we’re more likely to reach out and ask for the additional help we may need. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters, please reach out for help: Consult these suicide and self-injury resources, or seek out similar services where you live. If you live in the U.S., call 1-800-273-8255 or visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Wishing you a positive and safe World Mental Health Day. Thank you for being a part of this community.
