In memory of Brian Thomas Halloran, a former Pleasantville High School football player who tragically lost his battle with depression and anxiety on January 23, 2018, his family started The Break the Hold (BTH) Foundation. Brian was only 19 years old, just beginning his second semester at the University of South Carolina. In the wake of their heartbreaking loss, Brian’s family turned their grief into a powerful mission: to help other families by raising awareness about youth mental health and providing education that could prevent similar tragedies.
The BTH Foundation focuses on breaking the stigma surrounding youth mental health by providing the DBT-STEPS-A program, which teaches middle and high school students critical emotional coping skills. By bringing this program to schools in their community, the foundation aims to give young people the tools they need to manage stress, anxiety, and depression before these issues escalate.
One of the foundation’s most impactful initiatives is the involvement of students, particularly high school sports captains, who organize games dedicated to Brian’s memory and to raising awareness about youth mental health. These games raise funds for the foundation, which in turn help expand the reach of the DBT-STEPS-A program to more schools. The foundation’s goal is to break the hold that mental health stigma has on young people, encouraging open conversations and reducing isolation.
The Pleasantville community has embraced this cause wholeheartedly. Throughout the year, students and athletes contribute to the foundation’s efforts, whether by raising funds during dedicated games, providing logistical support for events like the “Into the Light” walk, or volunteering to set up and clean up. The Pleasantville football team is especially active, dedicating games to the cause and raising awareness among fans through presentations at these events.
A tonights football game, fans have the opportunity to learn more about BTH’s mission and contribute to this essential work. Fundraising efforts during the game directly support the foundation’s programs, ensuring that more students have access to critical mental health resources.
The Break the Hold Foundation encourages everyone to visit bthbreakthehold.org to learn more about their work and find ways to get involved. Whether by attending events, spreading the word, or making a donation, the community’s support can make a lasting impact. Together, we can continue to honor Brian’s legacy and fight for a future where no young person has to face mental health struggles in silence.
Let’s break the hold, together.
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