Rosalynn Carter, Lady Gaga, The Rock, and other mental health advocates

As the nation reflects on the death of former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who passed away on November 19, it’s impossible to ignore the ahead-of-her-time contributions she made as a mental health advocate.

Carter first took up the cause when her husband was the governor of Georgia in the 1970s. She brought these same efforts to the White House and continued this work throughout the rest of her public service career.

Today, the need for mental health support is of course no less. In the wake of the pandemic, mental health needs have soared. According to Mental Health America, 21 percent of U.S. adults are currently experiencing a mental illness, 55% of whom will receive no support or treatment. Of workers managing a mental health condition, 80% said stigma and shame have kept them from seeking care and support, according to a 2019 study by the National Alliance for Mental Illness.

As we look back on Carter’s own legacy, EBN explored other notable public figures who are using their platform to shake off the stigma that is often associated with mental health care and support. Scroll through to find out how 10 boldface names have followed Carter’s lead, using their position to advocate for mental health.