The Dragonfly Effect: Why Hearts 4 Minds Chose This Symbol of Transformation

Mental health touches all of us in one way or another. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans suffer from mental health issues, but many struggle in silence due to the negative stigma surrounding them. However, even those who seek help find resources and support difficult to access.

Hearts 4 Minds was built out of tragedy when our founders, Sheryl and Todd, lost their oldest son Alex in 2017. Alex suffered from depression and anxiety after he was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2016 and struggled with the diagnosis, ultimately ending his life. From deep-rooted grief and a drive to help others, Hearts 4 Minds was founded with the mission to break down the stigma of mental illness and raise the importance of mental health resources.

At the center of Hearts 4 Minds is the idea that anyone can change, no matter where you start or where you are. This is why the dragonfly was chosen as the symbol of hope, but it also has a significant connection in remembering Alex and who he was as a person.

Growing up, Alex loved bugs and nature. He had an intrinsic connection with the natural world around him. He even traveled with a grasshopper from Minnesota to Wisconsin on a family trip because he decided it was his pet. After feeding and caring for it for several days, Alex finally set the grasshopper free (after some convincing from his parents!), but this was just a glimpse of the type of person Alex was. He was brilliant, funny, and quirky. He loved to camp, fish, hike, and ride motorcycles. He was such a sweet boy that even the bugs around him took notice, including a dragonfly that landed on his nose!

Dragonflies have deep spiritual meanings rooted in life and death. They are one of nature’s most incredible transformers. They start life in the water before bursting through the surface and transforming into one of the alpha insects. They are symbols of change and hope and that there is nothing stopping you from reaching your goals or changing your life path. This makes the dragonfly the perfect symbol of hope for all those struggling with mental health issues.

Dragonflies are diverse, with thousands of known species around the world. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so that every dragonfly is unique, just like humans. For Hearts 4 Minds, we chose the dragonfly with a special heart head to showcase and be a symbol of strength and change.

After Alex’s death, it took time to process and grieve, but it also brought the understanding that mental illness is not something that can be “willed away.” Individuals and families struggle with the negative stigma around mental illness and suffer in silence and shame. Some try to ignore it until it is too late, and others do not know where to turn and do not talk about their struggles. However, now is the time to transform and change the negative views around mental illness. Hearts 4 Minds was founded to break down these barriers so there is not another tragedy like Alex’s and the symbol of the dragonfly instills hope in those most impacted by this disease.

Nearly seven years after its founding, Hearts 4 Minds continues to help those impacted by mental illness and provide support for loved ones. Through community initiatives that keep our dragonfly at the forefront, we work to provide resources for those looking for help including H4M Connect, Mental Health Workshops, and our Murals with Meaning across Northeast Florida.

Alex’s legacy continues to live on in every dragonfly Alex’s loved ones see. It is a reminder that his story, while heartbreaking, can lead to change and the hope that someone else’s life can be saved. So, what do we hope others feel or think when they see our dragonfly logo? Our founder Sheryl says it best, “we hope that when people see our special dragonfly… they will feel compassion, community, and hope. [We hope] that it will become an instantly recognizable symbol of understanding and can break stigmas, fears, or misunderstandings about mental illness.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, Text LIFE to 741741. Trained therapists are available 24/7 to assist. You are not alone!

If you are interested in spreading the Hearts 4 Minds message, get involved! You can sign up for volunteer opportunities, wear our merchandise (including our special dragonfly pin!), and donate to Hearts 4 Minds.