Marin County Student Leads Queer Mental Health Campaign

NOVATO, CA — A Marin Catholic High School student launched a campaign April 10 that will confront mental health disparities impacting queer youth in Marin County.

Eva Hellmold, a local youth leader and senior at Marin Catholic in Kentfield, started Break the Stigma (Rooted in Pride, We Bloom), an initiative aimed at improving mental health options for Marin County LGBTQIA+ students through resources, research, and community programming.

“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the challenges many LGBTQIA+ individuals face when seeking mental health support,” Hellmold said. “Through this campaign, I hope to create a space where young queer people feel heard, validated, and empowered to seek the care they deserve.”

Hellmold plans to speak at the Marin County Board of Supervisors April 22 meeting to highlight what she said is an urgent need for mental health equity.

She has partnered with Marin County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services to launch a pilot survey to assess mental health needs among queer youth. Hellmold has also launched breakthestigma.net to serve as a hub for resources such as mental health services, educational content, and advocacy tools for LGBTQIA+ youth.