Benjamin Brown

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Each person’s path is unique, but all lead to finding purpose. For me, public health and social justice for at-risk youth converge at this crossroads. Mental health challenges, particularly among marginalized groups, often go unspoken, exacerbating stigmas and isolation.

As a teen battling depression and suicidal thoughts, I struggled to express my pain until it was reluctantly addressed through my family and doctors. Years later, my experience directing the film Hurt with students from Appomattox County High School further emphasized the power of open dialogue, sparking vital conversations about suicide prevention and mental health.

My journey, including a suicide attempt during medical school, shaped my understanding of systemic gaps in care. These experiences, coupled with my service in the Peace Corps, reignited my passion for public health. While in the Dominican Republic, I worked to empower communities with sustainable health practices and policies, creating environments where people felt safe to share and learn.

Addressing suicide requires collaboration between governments and nonprofits, with organizations like C.O.P.E.S. leading the way in education and outreach. As a board member of Austin’s Second Chance, I am dedicated to expanding public health interventions and supporting policy changes that enhance prevention. My mission is to transform uncomfortable topics into actionable solutions, elevating lives through service and education.