October 10 marks World Mental Health Day, a global reminder that emotional well-being matters — even in the fast-paced world of content creation. A group of leading social media creators is stepping up to make their voices heard through the Creators 4 Mental Health campaign, which launched with a striking billboard in Times Square to raise awareness about burnout and the mental challenges of online fame.
The eye-catching display features well-known names like Jordan Howlett, Haley Kalil, Dhar Mann, Collins Key, Nia Sioux, Zachery Dereniowski, Dale Moss, and the organization’s founder Shira Lazar. Their shared goal is to break the stigma surrounding creator mental health, provide resources, and start meaningful conversations about emotional balance in the digital space.
Choosing a Times Square billboard wasn’t just for visibility — it’s symbolic. Over the past few years, billboards have become status symbols in the influencer world, representing success, recognition, and community. This project was made possible through a partnership with Influential, an influencer marketing agency owned by Publicis Groupe, and OUTFRONT Media, a major player in out-of-home advertising.
Burnout has long been the hidden cost of online success. More than seven years after YouTuber Elle Mills opened up about being “burnt out at 19,” the struggle continues — but the dialogue has evolved. With the rise of AI tools, tighter algorithm pressures, and endless content cycles, a staggering 78% of creators now report dealing with burnout-related symptoms. That number underlines just how urgently the industry needs systemic support.
The Creators 4 Mental Health movement was founded to build that support system. “Creators are the gig workers of the digital age, and their mental health must be taken seriously,” says Shira Lazar. “Openness is the first step to removing stigma. When creators share their stories, they not only heal themselves but give their communities permission to talk about their own struggles too.”
The initiative doesn’t stop with New York. Upcoming plans include activations in Washington D.C. and Atlanta, alongside a major study on creator well-being conducted with Opus, BeReal, Statusphere, and Social Currant. These efforts aim to provide real-world data and lasting resources for influencers, streamers, and digital professionals.
By continuing this conversation, Creators 4 Mental Health hopes to redefine success in the creator economy — where taking care of your mental health is just as important as growing your audience.
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