9 Instagram Accounts Changing The Conversations Around Mental Health
Artists, Writers, and Activists to Follow
Mental health is becoming less of a taboo topic, and much of that is thanks to the internet. As social media has grown and grassroots activism has taken to the web, mental health has become a more acceptable topic to discuss online.
“The more we talk about it, the less shame is attached to suffering.”
As someone who struggles with depression and anxiety, Iâm grateful to see others opening up about their journeys with mental health. The more we talk about it, the less shame is attached to this type of suffering. No one can underestimate the power of even one person sharing their storyâbecause someone, somewhere, needs to hear it.
When used intentionally, social media can create âbrave spacesâ on the internet for groundbreaking conversation. At best, these platforms provide a community for those who have nowhere else to turn. Although social media can trigger those experiencing difficulties, it can also serve as a space to find an unlikely friend.
“When used intentionally, social media can create âbrave spacesâ for groundbreaking conversation.”
These accounts and influencers are using their social media presence for supportive and progressive discussion about mental health. (If you don’t see your favorite account mentioned below, add their Instagram handle in the comments!)
1. On Our Moon | @onourmoon
On Our Moon, founded and run by Alexandra Dâamour, is a âdigital tentâ for honest conversations about mental health, therapy, trauma, and other topics often seen as off-limits. In addition to the social page, the brand has a website with beautifully written pieces and a podcast, as well as in-person and virtual event opportunities. Every aspect of On Our Moon shares vulnerable and compassionate stories in order to explore âwhat it means to be human.â
2. Hannah Daisy | @makedaisychains
Hannah Daisy is an artist, mental health advocate, and activist from the UK. Through her colorful and inclusive drawings, Hannah helps to normalize conversations around self-harm, non-binary experiences, and sexual assault and recovery. She utilizes #BoringSelfCare to celebrate the small acts of self-compassion one can participate in every day. Managing mental health concerns isnât always extreme; sometimes, it just takes small acts, like getting out of bed. Hannahâs feed is a wonderful place to find affirming mantras for everyday life.
3. Yung Pueblo | @yung_pueblo
Yung Pueblo is a meditator, writer, and speaker living in New York City. He utilizes his Instagram to share wise words and daily inspirations. Long fixated on the idea of liberation, he writes powerful meditations to share with his followers each day.
4. Minaa B. | @minaa_b
Minaa B. is a therapist, licensed social worker, and mental health advocate. Sheâs also the founder of an online book and writing club called âThe Literary Social.â In her Instagram Story highlights, she answers questions about working in the mental health industry and shares details about her personal life. And through her IG feed, Minaa B. provides succinct lists and âgentle remindersâ for ways to breathe amidst chaos. Every post she makes is a wonderful reminder to stop, check-in, and finds ways to support your mental health each day.
5. Girlsâ Night In | @girlsnightinclub
Girlsâ Night In is a digital hub for all things staying home. The Washington, D.C. based company started out as a weekly newsletter focused on embracing an introverted lifestyle and has grown into a virtual community of homebodies. The Instagram account shares self-care tips, fun memes, and curated resources for anyone needing a little extra love. By openly discussing the complicated balance between necessary alone time and nurturing connection, Girlsâ Night In recognizes the need for balance.
6. Haley Jakobson | @haleyjakobson
Haley Jakobson went to college for acting, though she has gained a loyal social media following for so much more than that. In typical millennial fashion, she holds many roles, such as artistic director and founder of a Brooklyn-based theater company, yoga teacher, photographer, and writer. Her vulnerable words on mental health, queerness, sex, trauma, and bodies have fostered an online community supporting healing. âI hope that when you come here you find…permission to unlearn everything that [has] hurt you and champion everything that heals you,” she wrote in a recent post introducing herself to new followers.
7. Sonaksha | @sonaksha
Sonaksha is an illustrator and writer based in Bengaluru, India. She uses colorful and immersive art to discuss topics such as mental health, body image, and gender. Additionally, she writes Instagram captions that unpack self-care practices, feminism, and political activism. You can support her work by purchasing postcards and prints from her online store.
8. My Wellbeing | @findwellbeing
My Wellbeing is a mental health service connecting individuals with therapists in New York City. On Instagram, the âmatchmakingâ company uses its feed to share expertly written articles, supportive guides, and comforting affirmations. It doesnât hurt that the helpful information comes in an aesthetically pleasing package, either. Donât miss the Story highlights featuring tips from various therapists.
9. Mari Andrew | @bymariandrew
Mari Andrew is best known for her clever art and love notes. After a period of grief in her life, she began drawing, and soon her writing was accompanied by illustrations of herself and her favorite things. Mari has an innate gift for taking complex topics and distilling them down to a few words or images. Her book, âAm I There Yet?â tells the stories behind her artwork and how she finds inspiration in everyday life.
Whatâs your favorite social media account addressing mental health? Drop its handle in the comments below!
Audrey Stanton was born and raised in the Bay Area and is currently based in Los Angeles. She works as a freelance writer and content creator with a focus in sustainable fashion. Audrey is deeply passionate about conscious living and hopes to continue to spread awareness of ethical consumption.
