We recently connected with Caroline Haldeman and have shared our conversation below.

Caroline, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I am the founder of Minds Over Matter NC, a mental health advocacy and suicide prevention group. As I delved into the world of mental health advocacy, I recognized the need for powerful visuals, such as logos and website design, and well-crafted content to amplify the voices of organizations and authors dedicated to improving mental health. This is where the idea of offering graphic design and editing services for mental health-related companies and books came into play. The logical aspect of this endeavor became evident when I realized that, despite the critical importance of mental health, many organizations and authors were struggling to convey their messages effectively. By offering my expertise in design and editing, I can bridge this gap and help them reach a wider audience. I’ve also created products designed to benefit mental health awareness, including journals, workbooks, and t-shirts. These items serve as tangible reminders of the importance of self-care, self-expression, and the power of resilience. This is more than just a business; it’s a way for me to give back, to use my own experiences as a testament to recovery from severe mental illness and inspire hope in others. Through our fundraising efforts, we have proudly contributed generous funds to organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention), enabling them to continue their essential work.

It’s a business rooted in empathy, driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in the world of mental health advocacy, and fueled by the belief that, together, we can overcome the stigma surrounding mental health. By sharing my story and dedicating myself to mental health advocacy, I am creating a space where open and honest conversations about mental health can thrive. I believe that vulnerability is a strength, and through understanding, empathy, and community, we can dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help.

With a deep understanding of the power of words and a passion for promoting mental wellness, I offer a unique blend of services and products that enable you to create a safe space for people to share their stories, fight the stigma, and inspire hope.

Caroline, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am Caroline Haldeman, the founder and driving force behind Minds Over Matter NC. My path as a mental health advocate is deeply rooted in my personal experiences. I have faced the challenges of living with and recovering from several mental illnesses and trauma. I have battled with mental illness for a very long time- I have struggled with anxiety as long as I can remember, and I’ve been struggling with depression since the age of 10. I am also a survivor of a suicide attempt. God knew my story was far from over and He saved me from myself! I realized that I wanted to do more than just survive; I wanted to thrive and help others on their journey to recovery. It hurts me to see people go through what I have gone through, therefore I am advocating for better mental health treatment, as the system in the United States is very broken. It can be very difficult to get any help, let alone the right help!

I am dedicated to creating and holding safe space for individuals to speak out and share their stories. It is through these personal narratives that we connect on a deeply human level, dispelling myths and misconceptions about mental health. By sharing our stories, we offer a lifeline to those who may be struggling in silence, letting them know they are not alone. Through the power of storytelling, we have the potential to change lives, promote understanding, and ultimately, save lives by encouraging individuals to seek help when they need it most.Minds Over Matter NC isn’t just a business; it’s a heartfelt mission, driven by the belief that every life is precious. My primary focus is on breaking down stigma, raising awareness, and providing crucial support to individuals and families impacted by mental health challenges. But I also understand the importance of sharing personal stories, which is why we offer a unique blend of products and services.

One of the key services I offer is Graphic Design and Website Design. My primary focus is on mental health-focused companies and authors, but I am open to collaborating with clients from various backgrounds. We also offer editing and formatting services for authors to ensure that your message is clear, impactful, and resonates with your audience. We understand that effective communication is at the heart of mental health advocacy, and we are dedicated to helping you convey your message with precision and compassion.

What truly sets Minds Over Matter NC apart is our commitment to merging mental health advocacy with storytelling. I also understand the transformative power of personal narratives. Through our services, we create a safe space for people to share their stories, fight stigma, and inspire hope. We firmly believe that vulnerability is a strength, and by encouraging open and honest conversations about mental health, we can dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Sure! I’m just going to get really honest here! I have been struggling with college for many years now, a time marked by numerous challenges and obstacles that could have easily discouraged me. During my time in college, I became a mother of my two amazing young children, and the demands of motherhood added a layer of complexity to my academic pursuits as I sunk into deep postpartum depression. As if that wasn’t enough, I faced several medical setbacks that led to me having multiple medical withdrawals. These health issues culminated in surgery and multiple hospitalizations, which not only affected my physical wellbeing but also took a toll on my mental health. The financial strain brought on by these unforeseen circumstances further compounded my challenges. I found myself at a crossroads, contemplating giving up on my dream of higher education multiple times. The weight of it all was, at times, definitely overwhelming.

I am so glad I didn’t give up, because I am now a senior in college and will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in just a few months! But my educational journey will not end here, as I am planning to enter graduate school to become a clinical mental health counselor. My ultimate dream is to open a residential treatment center specifically for individuals (like me) recovering from BPD. I’m driven by the fact that BPD is often misunderstood, historically challenging to treat, and heavily stigmatized. Through my own experiences and education, I hope to bring a new level of empathy, insight, and effective treatment to those who need it most.

My story is a testament to the power of resilience, the determination to overcome adversity, and the unwavering belief that one’s dreams can become a reality, no matter how challenging the path may be. It’s a reminder that with an unyielding spirit, we can turn our most significant trials into our greatest triumphs.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been word of mouth and networking within the entrepreneurial and mental health communities. Entrepreneurial friends and colleagues spreading the word about my services to their networks have been invaluable. Trust is a significant factor when choosing a service provider, and recommendations from trusted sources carry a lot of weight, so this is a big shoutout to the people mentioning my name in rooms of opportunity! You are very appreciated.

Connecting with like-minded professionals at networking events, especially those in the mental health advocacy space, has been another powerful way to expand my client base. These events have allowed me to showcase my expertise and build relationships with potential clients who share my passion for mental health advocacy.

These methods not only help me find clients but also align me with individuals who share my vision for mental health advocacy and support. Surrounding myself with such a positive and empowering network has not only enhanced my professional endeavors but also enriched my personal life. The value of a supportive and encouraging circle of individuals cannot be overstated.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.carolinehaldeman.com
• Instagram: @mindsovermatternc
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/carolinehaldeman23