In today’s society, people have become more aware of mental illnesses, but misconceptions about treatment and attitudes toward those affected persist. These social stigmas often arise not from hatred or discrimination, but from ignorance and “not knowing better.” They can manifest subtly through online comments, snarky remarks, or body language. If unaddressed, these stigmas can discourage people with mental illnesses from seeking help due to feelings of shame, guilt, and fear.
The “It’s Not You” campaign advocates normalising mental health conversations and distinguishing individuals from their symptoms. It seeks to shift societal perceptions by creating safe spaces, offering resources, and fostering community support. Through a holistic approach, the campaign aims to build empathetic environments that encourage open discussions and supportive networks around mental health.
First launched in 2024 to address stigmas against mental health challenges, “It’s Not You” continues to champion mental wellbeing, now with a stronger focus on building supportive communities and a culture of care.
Ah Dee represents Depression, like a cloud constantly hovering over us, whether we’re aware of it or not. They carry a weight of sadness that seeps into everything, dampening the spirits of those nearby. Ah Dee’s tears, from light drizzles to heavy rainstorms, reflect emotional fluctuations—small episodes or turbulent struggles. Their presence drains energy, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming, as if the rain has soaked into your bones.
Tarama represents Trauma, misunderstood as prickly but merely trying to keep others at a distance to avoid being hurt again. Their presence lingers like a shadow, often emerging in moments of vulnerability, such as when someone is emotionally drained or alone. Tarama whispers doubts and fears, amplifying insecurities and self-blame, never fully disappearing. They resurface unexpectedly, triggered by seemingly insignificant events or memories, always reminding those they’ve touched of their lasting impact.
Stressia represents Stress, small yet weighed down by countless worries. Despite their seemingly harmless appearance, they latch onto negative thoughts and worst-case scenarios, making even simple comforts feel suffocating. Stressia’s embrace, intended to soothe, often constricts, symbolising how stress can overwhelm daily life. While many resent Stressia, they often overlook that when managed, stress can serve as a helpful companion.
Have you met Stressia, Ah Dee or Tarama? Find out the unique coping superpower you’d use to take them on.
Don’t forget to share your results with friends to discover coping activities you can do together. After all, having a community is key to sustaining a strong support system in times of need and vulnerability.
Hear heartfelt stories and intergenerational dialogues about stress, depression, and trauma. These videos invite you to join the conversation and rethink what mental health means for us all.
Ultimately, overcoming mental health stigma and creating a more empathetic society is a shared battle, and we can’t do it without you! We highly appreciate your support by sharing our cause with others and making donations. Donations will be used to fund future projects and services by EMCC that support people going through mental health challenges, such as anxiety, marital conflicts, trauma, and career transitions.
Eagles Mediation & Counselling Centre (EMCC) was established in 1997 to bring hope to individuals and families through their relational, emotional, and mental health challenges with our mediation and counselling services, as well as training and education programmes.
As a non-profit organisation, EMCC provides subsidised counselling services to the community, advocates for and raises public awareness of mental well-being, as well as trains and equips practitioners involved in counselling, particularly in couple therapy and trauma, with effective and advanced clinical interventions and modalities.