A teen-led non-profit · Doylestown, PA

Your mind matters.
So do you.

Project Mental Health Matters is built by a teen, for teens. We are here to make talking about mental health open, kind, and normal, so no one in our community has to carry it alone.

I need support I want to help

Why we exist

Because it is okay to not be okay.

Anxiety, depression, stress, and loneliness are more common among teens than many people realize, and too often they stay hidden because of silence and stigma.

We believe that asking for help is a strength, that listening is a gift, and that a single caring conversation can change someone's day, or even their path.

“Reaching out is not weakness. It is one of the bravest things a person can do.” Our guiding belief

Our story

Started with love, and with loss.

Hi, I'm Jiselle DCosta, a rising junior at Central Bucks West High School and the founder of Project Mental Health Matters.

I started this project after losing two of my friends to suicide. That grief changed me. I also know firsthand what it feels like to struggle with anxiety and depression, and how much lighter things can feel when someone simply says, “I see you, and I'm here.”

I can't bring my friends back. What I can do is help build a community where talking about mental health is welcomed, where help is easy to find, and where no teen feels invisible. This website is a first step, and I'm so glad you're here.

Jiselle DCosta
Founder, Project Mental Health Matters
Connect on LinkedIn · Follow on Instagram

What we do

Four ways we show up for teens.

Break the stigma

Normalizing honest conversations about mental health in schools and in our community.

Point to help

Making trusted resources and crisis lines easy to find, so reaching out feels less scary.

Build everyday tools

Sharing simple coping skills, like breathing exercises, journaling, and checking in on friends.

Grow community

Connecting students who care, so support is something we build together.

Take a breath with us

A slow breath can help your body feel a little calmer. Follow the circle: breathe in, hold, breathe out. There's no right or wrong way.

Ready when you are

A little reminder

You are not a burden. You are worth caring about.

Support, right now

If you are struggling, please reach out.

You deserve support. These services are free and confidential, and the people on the other end are trained to listen without judgment.

If you are in immediate danger or have thought about ending your life, please call or text 988, or call 911. You do not have to be sure it's “serious enough.” If you are hurting, it matters.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988

Free, 24/7, in the U.S. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org.

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741

Free, 24/7 support by text with a trained crisis counselor.

The Trevor Project

1-866-488-7386

24/7 support for LGBTQ+ young people. Text START to 678-678, or visit thetrevorproject.org.

Worried about a friend?

You do not have to have the perfect words. Some things that help:

Tell them you've noticed and you care
Ask directly, and listen without judging
Stay with them and help them reach a trusted adult or 988
Take it seriously, and don't keep it a secret

Signs someone may be struggling

Pulling away
Big mood changes
Sleep changes
Losing interest
Hopeless talk
Giving things away

If someone talks about wanting to die, take it seriously and get help right away.

Trusted people near you

You can also talk to a school counselor or social worker, a parent or guardian, your doctor, a coach, or any adult you trust. Telling one person is a great first step.

Get involved

Small acts add up.

Whether you have five minutes or five hours, there is a place for you.

Follow & share

Instagram

Check in on someone

Send a text to a friend today. “Thinking of you. How are you, really?” can mean everything.

Partner with us

Students, schools, parents, and community organizations: let's connect and talk about what we can build together.

Email us

Get in touch

Questions, ideas, or want to partner with us? Email hello@projectmentalhealthmatterspa.org or message us on Instagram.

This inbox is not monitored for emergencies and replies may take a few days. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988, text HOME to 741741, or call 911.

You are not alone. You never were.

Thank you for being here, for caring, and for being part of the change. Together, we can make mental health matter.

Back to the top

Your mind matters.So do you.