Katie Regan

Goal-$500

Katie is 14 years old and excited to start her sophomore year of high school in the fall. Being active, hanging out with friends and expressing herself through art are things that motivates her the most. Participating in sports is one of her favorite things to do. Volleyball, basketball, and snowboarding are the sports she enjoys most, but she loves to try new things. This is her second year being an Off The Mask Model, working with NAMI helps her understand more and share with others the importance of mental health.

Last year during the pandemic, Katie's school year was switched to remote learning and she was unable to connect with friends. Being around people gives her energy and that vibe was suddenly lost. The sports teams she enjoyed so much began to limit and then cancel participation and some games. This past year was tough, not being able to be around friends and really get into sports made Katie feel way off of her game. Talking openly with friends who were going through similar feelings helped us lift each other up when necessary. Support is key, reaching out to help each other is always a game changer.

Being a 2021 Off The Mask Model helps Katie show that she is here for others to support them through a tough time. Learning to work through things instead of ignoring them is important in your daily life. Many people dismiss the fact that they do need support because they are too afraid of being judged. Having to put "on a mask" is a very common thing to do. Social Media seems to trick us into thinking that the normal is to have a perfect life and that everyone is happy all the time. To help people take off their mask, talking more about mental health can teach others that it isn't uncommon at all to need support in their lives. Using social media to spread the realities of mental health is helping yourself and others break the stigma associated with mental health. People need a reminder that not everyone is perfect and that its normal to have difficult times, there is always a way to push through it.