Even if there were twice as many real mental health stories being told, it still wouldn’t be enough. That’s why we – Community Access – launched Changing Minds, a unique storytelling initiative that helps young people (ages 15 to 25) share mental health stories with other young people in ways that can spark meaningful conversation and bring about real change.
Originally conceived in 2016 as a young filmmaker competition – part of the NYC Mental Health Film Festival – Changing Minds is now its own festival, as well.
Changing Minds empowers young people to share uplifting/unique/ vital mental health stories through film. In the process, Changing Minds aims to change how we think and talk about mental health issues. To date, we've received thousands of films from young filmmakers around the world.
For young people, especially, mental health challenges can be difficult to navigate – and too many face these challenges alone, fearful of being misunderstood. This can change, and it should change. With students, educators, and mental health advocates all working together, we can help young people to feel free, safe, healthy, and hopeful.
For more about Changing Minds – and to see films from our past festivals – visit www.changingsmindsfilmfestival.org.
Selected films will be screened in New York City at the Changing Minds Young Filmmaker Festival in May 2026. Selected films and runners up will have the opportunity to be featured in our online festival series, Film Fridays, as well as community and library screenings.
