Michael van Kekem: #BETHEREFORYOURMATE

The project #BETHEREFORYOURMATE was initiated in 2019 by Studio Michael van Kekem to raise attention for mental health and suicide. Via the hashtag, Michael hopes to bring attention to something very important, which is still often stigmatised and not discussed enough.

“We all go through different stages in life. A traumatising experience, a loss of a loved one or an accident preventing you from doing what you love to do can all be causes for depression. Unfortunately, without good help, depression can lead up to several severe mental disorders or death” states Michael. To help combat this and to support the project, Michael designed a series of stickers and badges. The products are for everyone to wear and share to let people know you are willing to listen to their story, whether that be your neighbour, strangers, friends or partner.

In 2016 Michael lost a great friend to depression: “As an illustrator I am fortunate to be able to translate such a great loss into visual work. Even when this is extremely hard. I do this through text and image. That is the way I tell my story. With this campaign I can contribute.” Via the hashtag Michael will share images and stories that will show that no one is completely alone. Everyone is free to use the hashtag to share their own stories.

Let’s end this stigma. Talk to each other.
Share your stories. Big or small.
Listen to each other.
Love everyone.

The products can be purchase online here. All proceeds will go to mental health foundations and charities.

www.michaelvankekem.com

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