Breaking Mental Health Stigma
Cognitive Courage is a nonprofit organization committed to making mental health education a core part of every student’s learning experience. We believe that understanding emotional well-being should be a basic part of growing up and learning to care for ourselves and each other.
Our work combines peer-based outreach, science-driven advocacy, and school-based engagement to create real and lasting change. We focus on equipping young people with the knowledge and tools they need to support their own mental wellness and the well-being of those around them. By normalizing conversation, increasing access to resources, and challenging harmful stereotypes, we aim to break the silence that too often surrounds mental illness.
At Cognitive Courage, we believe that mental health literacy should be as widespread as CPR training and just as life saving.
Whether you are a student, educator, parent, or advocate, we welcome you to join us in building a future where emotional awareness, compassion, and courage are central to youth development.
Our Approach
At Cognitive Courage, we take a proactive and youth-centered approach to mental well-being. We focus on meeting young people where they are, using relatable language, real-life experiences, and accessible tools. Our goal is to create environments where students feel safe to explore their emotions, ask questions, and build lasting skills in empathy, self-awareness, and support. Rather than reacting to crises after they occur, we work to cultivate a culture of early awareness and emotional strength. By combining peer involvement, scientific insight, and open dialogue, we aim to spark meaningful change in how young people understand and care for mental health — both their own and each other’s.