Visualising Wellness: Matthew Johnstone’s Startup Journey to Mental Health Advocacy

Summary

Matthew Johnstone, a former creative director in the advertising industry, shares his journey from the high-pressure world of advertising to becoming a mental health and wellbeing advocate. He discusses the stresses and traumas of the advertising industry and the impact it had on his mental health.

After experiencing the 9/11 attacks in New York, he realised the need for change in his life and began writing and illustrating books on mental health. Matthew emphasises the power of imagery in communication and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.

He also discusses the potential impact of AI on the field of illustration.

In this conversation, Matthew Johnstone discusses the challenges of mental health work, particularly in relation to burnout and compassion fatigue. He shares his experiences working with schizophrenia and emphasises the importance of education and providing hope.

Matthew also talks about his venture, Here's a Thought (HAT), which aims to deliver simple and concise well-being messages to schools. He reflects on failures and setbacks and offers advice for early startup founders. Throughout the conversation, Matthew highlights the significance of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Takeaways

The advertising industry can be highly stressful and can have a negative impact on mental health.
Authenticity and storytelling are key in advocating for mental health and wellbeing.
Imagery is a powerful tool in communication and can convey complex ideas more effectively than written words.
The rise of AI in illustration may have both positive and negative implications for the field.
Working in different environments and listening to diverse perspectives can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Mental health work can be challenging and may lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms and take steps to address them.
Education and providing hope are crucial in supporting individuals with schizophrenia. Simplifying complex information and promoting conversations can help reduce stigma and improve understanding.
Burnout is a significant issue in the healthcare industry, and it is essential to prioritise self-care and work-life balance to prevent it.
Having a well-being toolbox that includes strategies like regular breaks, good sleep, exercise, and meditation can contribute to mental and physical well-being.
Failures and setbacks are part of the entrepreneurial journey. It is important to learn from them, seek advice, and adapt to new opportunities.
Ideas and intuition play a vital role in entrepreneurship. Trusting your instincts and being open to collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and success.

Chapters