Hi, I’m Maya Blau, and my journey with mental health began back in fifth grade. At the time, I didn’t really understand what anxiety or depression were. In March 2020, everything changed when we got the email saying school would move online for “two weeks” because of COVID-19. Like a lot of people, I didn’t realize how much isolation would affect me. I’m naturally very outgoing and social, so suddenly being cut off from friends and normal life made me feel trapped and disconnected. Those two weeks turned into months, and that’s when my anxiety really started to grow. That fall, I learned I’d be switching to a private school—a totally new environment with new people, new teachers, and new expectations. I didn’t know anyone, and after spending so much time at home, I developed separation anxiety from my mom. Every morning felt like a battle with myself just to walk through the school doors. I was also bullied, which made things even harder. But over time, things changed. I transferred to a public high school, where I finally started to feel seen, supported, and understood. I realized how important it is to have people who care—friends, teachers, and even classmates who make you feel like you’re not alone. That experience completely shifted how I view mental health. Now, I want to use what I went through to help others who are struggling the way I did. I know how scary it can be to feel anxious or alone, and how hard it is to open up. My goal is to help create spaces where people can talk about mental health without shame—where they feel heard and supported. That’s why I created The Mind Matters Kit. Each kit includes a stress ball with affirmations, a mirror with positive messages like “You are beautiful, You are strong, You will get through this, You are loved,” a gratitude jar to encourage daily reflection, a mini coloring book, colored pencils, and lip gloss. These items are designed to bring comfort, encouragement, and a little joy to anyone who needs it. Whether it’s through raising awareness, sharing my story, or helping others find the courage to reach out for help, I want to make a difference. If my story and these kits can make even one person feel less alone, then everything I went through will have been worth it. Please consider supporting this fundraiser to help bring hope and comfort to those facing mental health challenges.