“I started it with the intent of spreading mental health awareness to as many people as I could using my shirts as a medium,” said Graden, who learned to print through an internship at a screen-printing shop. “As I kept going, I started to see improvements in my own mental health. It’s provided me with an outlet and has opened me up to more conversations about mental health that I otherwise wouldn’t have had.”
Graden said his generation is challenged with mental health issues because they’ve had what he describes as a “distraction machine in their pockets,” referencing the cell phone with internet access, for most of their lives.
“The objective of these apps is to keep our attention and to do that, they pump out constant stimulation,” Graden said. “It’s super easy for an impressionable teenager to fall into this trap and I was one of them. I’d be on Instagram or TikTok for hours at a time and wondering why I’m still scrolling and not stopping.”
Graden said the unrealistic standards put out by social media profiles make it harder for teens to enjoy the simple things in life. He said his generation faces constant pressure to live up to those standards because they face it every time they get on a phone app.
To move past those pressures, Graden said to focus on the small things and to start appreciating the present. Make your bed in the morning, clean your room, make a smoothie or light some incense. It’s the little things that can make life better.
He’s hoping his brand and fashion line will also open up conversations about mental health. It did for him while offering a creative outlet to share his graphic designs. He continues to create and sell his fashion brand while attending college with an interest in graphic design and visual communication.
“The sooner you can build good habits and find enjoyment from the little things in life, the better,” he said. “If you are really struggling, never be afraid to reach out for help whether it be from your friends, family or a professional. Life is just too short and too precious.”
Because all designs are created and printed in his basement, Graden offers a limited number of pieces. To see what’s available and to place an order, please visit …https://areuokay.shop.