Project Healthy Minds Unites Thousands for World Mental Health Day Festival in Times Square

Healing Minds, One Conversation at a Time: Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Festival As the sun rises over New York City on October 10th, thousands of people will gather in Times Square for a day of healing, hope, and connection. The fourth annual World Mental Health Day Festival, presented by Project Healthy Minds, promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together some of the world's most influential thought leaders, celebrities, executives, and visionaries to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: mental health. Among the headlining speakers is Deepak Chopra, MD, a renowned author and wellness expert who has spent decades advocating for holistic approaches to healthcare. "Mental health is not just about treating symptoms; it's about cultivating well-being," he says in an exclusive interview with Variety. "We need to rethink our relationship with stress, anxiety, and depression – and find new ways to support each other on this journey." Chopra will be joined by a diverse lineup of speakers, including journalist Katie Couric, author and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, parenting expert Dr. Becky Kennedy, and Megababe founder Katie Sturino. But what sets this festival apart is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility – every session will be free to the public, making it possible for anyone to attend. For organizers like Rich Kleiman, co-founder of Boardroom, the goal is clear: "We want to create a space where people feel comfortable sharing their stories, seeking support, and connecting with others who understand what they're going through." Kleiman's own experiences with mental health have driven his passion for this work – and he's not alone. Many of the festival speakers have spoken publicly about their struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma. One such speaker is Lukas Graham, the Danish singer-songwriter behind hits like "7 Years" and "Mama Said." In a recent interview, Graham opened up about his own struggles with anxiety and depression – and how music has been his lifeline. "When I'm on stage, performing for thousands of people, it's like my worries disappear," he says. "It's a feeling of pure freedom." The festival will feature over 20 sessions, ranging from panel discussions to workshops and performances. Some highlights include: A conversation with Dr. Becky Kennedy about the importance of self-care for parents A panel discussion on mental health in the workplace, featuring Rich Kleiman and other industry leaders A workshop on mindfulness and meditation led by Deepak Chopra A performance by Lukas Graham, who will share his music and story But what really sets this festival apart is its commitment to action. Throughout the day, attendees will have access to resources and support services – including free mental health screenings, counseling sessions, and information on local wellness programs. For Project Healthy Minds founder, [founder's name], the goal is simple: "We want to create a movement of people who are committed to prioritizing their mental health – and supporting others in doing the same." With its diverse lineup of speakers, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to action, this year's World Mental Health Day Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars for October 10th – and join the conversation. As Deepak Chopra so eloquently puts it: "Mental health is not just a personal issue; it's a collective one. Let's come together to heal, support each other, and create a brighter future – one conversation at a time." *Based on reporting by Variety.*