The Jonathan Foundation

09/30/2025

Brain and mental health are not political issues—they are sacred human rights.

With the sponsorship of the White House Faith Office, I had the honor of presenting in the Roosevelt Room of the West Wing today to HHS Secretary Kennedy on the urgent need for a National Brain Health Revolution. We are at a crossroads:

• 25% of Americans are on psychiatric medications.
• Anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and addiction are at epidemic levels.
• More than 1 billion people worldwide are struggling with brain and mental health challenges (WHO).
• Suicide in young people has increased 746% since 2000.

But this crisis is also our greatest opportunity. If we shift the conversation—not from “mental illness,” but to brain health—we can transform how we care for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

1 in 2 Americans will face a mental health challenge in their lifetime. If it’s not you, it will be someone you love. Brain health does not discriminate. It affects every race, every religion, every political party. This is not a partisan issue. This is a human issue. A sacred issue. And it’s time to unite behind a bold vision: a future where brain health is the foundation of a healthier, stronger, more purposeful nation.

The revolution has already begun. Join us in making brain health America’s top priority—because when we get our brains right, everything else will follow. More to come. 🇺🇸

09/14/2025

08/04/2025

🏃‍♀️💛 Run for Brighter Days 💛🏃‍♂️
Together, we can make a difference.

Join us for the 14th Annual Run 4 Brighter Days on September 13, 2025 in Coward, SC, as we raise awareness and advocate for teen suicide prevention. Whether you run, walk, or simply cheer from the sidelines—your participation helps shine a light on a cause that saves lives.

✨ Every step brings hope.

📍 Can't join us in person? No problem—we’ve got a Virtual Option so you can make an impact from wherever you are.

Let’s move for something that matters.

Sign up today!
https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Coward/RunBrighterDaysAndKidsFunEvent

08/01/2025

🌱 Brighter Futures Start Early: Mentorship That Makes a Difference

Replay from the 2nd Annual Brighter Days Conference – June 10

In this inspiring session, James Frederick, PhD, Professor at Clemson University, shares insights on the Brighter Futures Middle School Mentorship Project—a school-based initiative designed to uplift at-risk youth through life skills, mentorship, and team-based learning.

Focused on early intervention, this program empowers middle schoolers by helping them:
🔹 Build confidence
🔹 Develop communication & problem-solving skills
🔹 Engage in meaningful group projects
🔹 Form strong, positive relationships with adult mentors

Dr. Frederick reminds us that when we plant seeds of hope early, the harvest is brighter futures for individuals and communities.

If you care about youth development, school support systems, or mentorship, this is a must-watch.

Watch the replay now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iqrVZ87J0A

In this inspiring session, James Frederick, PhD, Professor at Clemson University, shares insights on the Brighter Futures Middle School Mentorship Project—a ...

07/31/2025

⏳ The Countdown is On!

We're just 6 weeks away from the 14th Annual Run 4 Brighter Days — happening September 13, 2025 in Coward, SC (with a virtual option too!).

Every step, every stride, and every share helps raise awareness for teen suicide prevention. 💛

🏃‍♀️ Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from afar, your participation brings hope to those who need it most.

📅 Mark your calendar
📍 Invite your friends

🌐 Register today — and run for something that matters.
https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Coward/RunBrighterDaysAndKidsFunEvent

07/30/2025

🕊️ If you’ve lost someone to suicide, we invite you to Be That Friend.

Grief can be heavy—but your voice, your story, and your presence can bring light to others still struggling.

The Be That Friend campaign is an international movement using photos, videos, and powerful personal stories to raise awareness during National Suicide Prevention Month in September. Together, we’re breaking the silence, honoring lives lost, and creating space for healing and connection.

💛 Whether you're remembering a loved one or taking a stand for others—you are welcome here.
📸 Sign up now to participate in our global photo and video campaign.
Help show the world that no one has to struggle alone.
👉 https://thejonathanfoundation4teens.org/joinourcampaign/

07/29/2025

💭 Brain Type 4: Sensitive & Sad

Ever feel like you're stuck on an emotional roller coaster?

Individuals with Brain Type 4 often show increased activity in the brain’s emotional centers (limbic system) on SPECT scans. This heightened sensitivity and empathy can be a true gift—but it can also lead to persistent negative thoughts, low moods, and pessimism.

💛 The good news? You can rewire your brain.
✨ Regular movement
✨ Omega-3 fatty acids
✨ Natural mood-lifters like saffron..can all help restore emotional balance and lift your perspective.

👉 Explore Your Unique Brain Type
Take the FREE Brain Health Assessment today and learn how to better care for your emotional well-being.
http://tinyurl.com/tjfbrainassessment

07/28/2025

🧠 From Trauma to Resilience: Understanding ACEs & Building Strength
Replay from the 2nd Annual Brighter Days Conference – June 10

In this powerful session, Kelly Wuest, M.Ed, Director of Training & Workforce Development, takes a deep dive into the original Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, its impact in South Carolina, and how we can turn awareness into action.

You’ll learn:
🔹 The neuroscience behind trauma and toxic stress
🔹 How ACEs affect long-term mental and physical health
🔹 The role of epigenetics in healing
🔹 How to foster positive childhood experiences and build protective factors
🔹 Practical ways to apply this knowledge in everyday work
This session offers valuable insight for anyone working in education, healthcare, social services, or community support—and for anyone who believes healing begins with understanding.

👉 Watch the replay now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrrX4a1pMDs

In this powerful session, Kelly Wuest, M.Ed, Director of Training & Workforce Development, takes a deep dive into the original Adverse Childhood Experiences ...