“I wanted to create something of my own that I could be proud of, and announce to everyone that I live with a mental illness.”
Given the stigma surrounding mental illness, it may seem pretty radical to wear your condition on your sleeve. But that’s exactly what graphic designer Michelle Hammer wants you to do.
Hammer is the founder of Schizophrenic.NYC, a company that sells things like T-shirts, bracelets, and coffee mugs that bring awareness to mental illnesses.
Hammer herself was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 22. Now 28, the New York City native founded Schizophrenic.NYC as a way to start conversations, and reduce stigmas and misconceptions surrounding mental health. Her clothes help the community monetarily too, as a portion of the profits is donated to organizations that help the mentally ill population of NYC.
