Bridging the Gap
Welcome to The United Minds Project, a service created by three individuals who are passionate about fighting against the intergenerational stigma against mental health. We are dedicated to bridging the gap between parents and children. We collaborate with administrators in high school systems and universities to reduce the negative connotations associated with mental health and to educate parents on how to be more involved and informed.
Our Three-Pronged Approach
Our comprehensive approach enables us to address diverse perspectives and their unique needs. By educating and supporting students, families, and faculty in distinct yet interconnected ways, we foster a culture of awareness, understanding, and proactive care.
Students
Focuses on empowering young individuals by creating a safe space to discuss mental health. Through education and open dialogue, we aim to normalize seeking support and help break the cycle of stigma for future generations.
Parents
For parents, our approach emphasizes fostering open communication between them and their children to build stronger connections and understanding. By providing practical guides, skill-building opportunities, and resources, we aim to help parents address mental health challenges with confidence and empathy.
Faculty
For faculty, the focus is on fostering an environment where mental health is openly acknowledged and supported. By encouraging practices that prioritize awareness and understanding, faculty can help create spaces where students feel safe to seek help and address challenges.
Intergenerational stigma is among the factors that can create a barrier to accessing care and support. The prevalence of mental health problems among college age students has been on the rise for over a decade with anxiety and depression among the top issues. Data indicates the impact these issues have on students’ overall wellbeing and specifically their academic performance. The very exciting news is that UConn is an incredibly diverse community, with students, staff and faculty from all over the world, with different experiences and backgrounds that have shaped them, who come together to form a community. An essential approach to reducing intergenerational stigma is through awareness and knowledge for all members of our community that allows our students to thrive personally and academically.
Kristina Stevens, Director of UConn SHaW Mental Health