While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, every person has their own mental health with unique needs and challenges. It is time that we extend the same empathy and aid to mental health as we do to physical health. One of the best ways to end the stigma surrounding mental health is by spreading the idea that it is always ok to take a break for your mental wellbeing, especially for teens and students. Hailey Hardcastle is a freshman at the University of Oregon and a student mental health advocate. This year she was named one of Teen Vogues 21 under 21 most influential young people for her work on passing House Bill 2191, which allows students to take mental health days off from school. Hardcastle works with other teens nationwide to promote student advocacy and come up with creative solutions to teenage mental challenges. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at
While not everyone has a diagnosed mental illness, every person has their own mental health with unique needs and challenges. It is time that we extend the same empathy and aid to mental health as we do to physical health. One of the best ways to end the stigma surrounding mental health is by spreading the idea that it is always ok to take a break for your mental wellbeing, especially for teens and students. Hailey Hardcastle is a freshman at the University of Oregon and a student mental health advocate. This year she was named one of Teen Vogues 21 under 21 most influential young people for her work on passing House Bill 2191, which allows students to take mental health days off from school. Hardcastle works with other teens nationwide to promote student advocacy and come up with creative solutions to teenage mental challenges. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at
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