The Mental Health Association of Westchester (MHA) is pleased to announce that Break The Hold (BTH), an initiative established by the Halloran family of Pleasantville, has become a program under the agency’s umbrella.
The Halloran family formed BTH in honor of their late son, Brian Thomas Halloran, who died by suicide in 2018 at the age of 19. BTH’s mission is to “break the hold” on mental health issues by educating, advocating and raising awareness about depression and its effects in schools and communities.
“Through open dialogue and communication, BTH hopes to reduce the stigma of mental illness,” said Brian Halloran, father of Brian Thomas. “Our long-term goal is to become a model for high schools throughout New York State – and potentially across the country – as we build a network of awareness, support and communication.”
“Together, Break The Hold and MHA will advance a shared goal of helping youth become resilient, emotionally healthy adults,” said Charlotte Östman, MHA Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to harnessing our joint passion, resources and experience for this vital work.”
Recent events hosted by BTH include:
Raise the Volume
Saturday, February 2, 2019 | 7:00 – 11:00 pm
Club Infinity | 404 Irvington Street, Pleasantville, NY 10570
An evening of dinner, dancing and cocktails dedicated to raising funds to support mental health curriculum development for schools and the community.
Free Film Screening of Suicide: The Ripple Effect
Wednesday, February 13, 2019 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Jacob Burns Film Center | 364 Manville Road, Pleasantville, NY 10570
This feature length documentary focuses on the effects of suicide and the positive ripple effects of advocacy, inspiration and hope. The film highlights the journey of Kevin Hines, who at age 19, survived a suicide attempt of jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Today, Hines is a world-renowned mental health advocate, motivational speaker and author. A panel discussion following the film included mental health professionals and community members. MHA Board Member Sean Mayer, who became an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention following the loss of his brother, Ryan, in 2014, moderated the panel.