The Need
1 in 5 adult Montanans have been told by a health professional that they have a depressive disorder and 41% of Montana high school students have reported symptoms of depression - this is the highest rate ever documented. Additionally, loneliness is on the rise, with a 2020 study showing that three out of five Americans are lonely.* Mental health support is a critical need for adults and youth in today’s society and a multi-pronged approach is necessary to provide pathways for support and intervention, as well as prevent suffering. Increasing access to counseling, medical treatment, support groups, peer support, and raising education and awareness are all ways we can reduce these struggles. But we also need to challenge the systemic inequities that got us here. Teaching compassion is both responsive and preventative because it is the balm when we are hurting, and the shining light of joy, hope, and common humanity that keeps us connected to our community.
Compassion in Action
Our mission is to teach and spread compassion through art and mindfulness.
We use art and mindfulness as tools for boosting mental health and systemic change by: 1) building cultures of belonging, 2) growing skills in mindfulness, 3) sharing the therapeutic benefits of creativity and making, 4) connecting through real human stories, and 5) understanding compassion-work as legacy-work. The world and the gifts we experience now reflect those who came before us, and the same is true for the world we leave behind. This is why we work with people who are key catalysts of change - teachers, youth mentors, healthcare workers, students, and caregivers.
Compassion is a skill and practice that fosters deeper and more authentic connections, leading to stronger and more resilient relationships - with ourselves, others, and the Earth. When these relationships are nurtured, they in turn promote more effective ways of dealing with conflict and stress, as well as lead to greater life fulfillment and satisfaction.* Thank you spreading compassion by making a gift today.
If you would like to make a smaller, monthly donation, check out our Patreon.
Skip the fees!
We also accept checks mailed to:
Compassion Project
PO Box 11046
Bozeman, MT 59719
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and our EIN number is:
84-2217994
Sources
https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/annual/measure/Depression_a/state/MT