Labels Paving The Way to Mental Health Awareness
These are the brands from around the world making an impact with their mind over matter approach.
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With the consumption of social media, recent global pandemic and political divisions, there has been an increase in depression and anxiety rates around the world. It is a crisis that has been quietly building over the years and according to Consumer Notice, depression and anxiety rates have increased by 70% in the past 25 years, underscoring the urgency of awareness.
What makes this moment particularly noteworthy is not just the surge in these mental health challenges, but the recent shift in how it is openly discussed or responded to within the fashion and beauty industry. Mental health, until recently, was not part of the fashion and beauty dialogue. Traditionally, this sphere was usually focused on the exterior and sometimes, even setting unrealistic standards that later played a part in harming the mental health in creators, their teams and consumers.
Now, the once-taboo topic is emerging into the forefront, moving away from silence and stigma. Prominent voices such as celebrities, models, designers and influencers have found the importance of using their platform to raise awareness around mental health and start honest conversations with the public.
Whether it is through the ethos of their label or collaborations with organizations, labels are no longer creating products that only look good, but also feel good and purposeful. In the following list, we will explore eight brands that stand as pioneers in the evolving landscape of mental health awareness and support.
Anatomy
Anatomy
With purpose and intention at its core, the South African label places wellness at the forefront, through the brand’s ethos and designs. With their latest collection focusing on purpose, the label lets its typography led work stand as a means of self-expression and sense of belonging.
@facevalue___
@facevalue___
Hailing from Kuwait, this female-led streetwear label sparks an open conversation about mental health through designs challenging gender norms and promoting positivity. Label founder Layan Al Dabbous taps into her own psyche and personal experiences to tell her stories through her imaginary character, Claudette, that the public and her community have found a bond with.
Madhappy
Madhappy
Madhappy is the oxymoronic label revolving around optimism, bringing people together through designs, pop-ups and events to build a community of positivity. Through its non-profit organization, The Madhappy Foundation, the brand donates 1% of every sale to fund research and raise awareness.
Museum
Museum
With mental health in consideration, the athleisure brand uses its minimal designs to access the inner psyche and build a serene and simple space. As their apparel is made for everyday use, Museum of Peace and Quiet aims to promote a clear headspace in order to allow space for meaningful ideas and emotions.
Pangaia
Pangaia
On World Mental Health Day, October 10, PANGAIA partnered with the meditation app Headspace to launch a collaborative capsule collection promoting kindness and well-being. The brands focused on coming together to encourage wearers to take the time to reflect on the significance of self-care, mindfulness and kindness.
Rare
Rare
Having already partnered with over 20 organizations, the vegan cosmetics company prioritizes mental health. Founded by Selena Gomez who has publicly been vulnerable about her mental and physical health over the years, the brand collaborates with her organization, “The Rare Impact Fund,” which aims to raise $100 million over the next 10 years for research and support.
The
The
Born in Scottsdale, this label gained popularity with its “Empathy Always” crewneck—which serves as a tribute to mental health. The brand has a steadfast narrative that challenges societal norms, celebrating unique human experiences. The feel-good designs of the apparel celebrate the mind and all its complexities.
Total
Total
Total Luxury Spa features a strong focus on graphics, which are dedicated to immersing its audience within self-expression and imagination. Total Luxury Spa collaborates closely with various initiatives, including The Umoja Center and The Community Foundation of Greater Flint, among others, to raise awareness and offer access to mental health support and other charitable causes.
