My Story
My name is Samantha Yee and I am the founder of Chasing Happy. I graduated from the University of Hawai’i with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in education, and I am currently studying in a Master of Arts program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Antioch University. I am a mental health advocate who is passionate about suicide prevention, psychoeducation, social justice, multiculturalism, and breaking down barriers to mental health care.
As a counselor, I identify as a neurodivergent woman of color who is interested in working with marginalized communities who face the adverse effects of oppression and institutional racism. I believe that mental health care is a right that everyone deserves access to and that psychological treatment can create positive and catalytic change in the lives of others.
I created Chasing Happy in 2020 after the loss of my cousin Avery to suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young adults, with suicide being responsible for 48,183 deaths in 2021, meaning about one death every 11 minutes (CDC, 2023). The Chasing Happy movement aims to raise awareness of those struggling with mental health issues in hopes of changing these statistics so that we prevent suicide. Please join me in creating a brighter future for mental health so that we can help more individuals reach happiness.
Avery Tan
Avery’s Story
My cousin Avery was the type of person that would instantly bring a smile to your face and he is my biggest inspiration. He was our source for laughter and fun, and my best friend. Avery loved fashion, soccer, taking care of his friends, and helping others. His contagious positive energy is something that will live on inside each of us.
On September 22nd, 2019, we lost Avery from his battle with mental health. He was 19. There are no words to express the sorrow we feel from his absence, but even so, we will always honor and remember him for the joy he brought us when he was here. I created Chasing Happy in his name so that we can continue to help other people and bring them joy, in the same way that he did. He inspires me to chase and find my own happiness, and help others do the same.
I love you, cousin. I hope you’re smiling up there.
Always, Sam