Since 2012, the Steve Hicks School’s Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health has helped sponsor the Mental Health Awareness Creative Arts Contest to fight mental health stigma. Each year, children and adults of all ages can submit original artwork, writing, or photography for the opportunity to win prizes and have their work showcased at the Texas Capitol during the month of May, which is observed as Mental Health Awareness Month.
“We believe this contest starts a conversation about mental health in homes, schools, and communities,” institute director Molly Lopez said. “We hope that participants talk about their work with parents, teachers, and others, and recognize that they have valuable contributions to this public conversation about mental health.”