Story by Angelica Villa. Photos provided by Momentous Institute.
The “Squeeze the Day” campaign, launched by Dallas-based nonprofit Momentous Institute, is making mental health more accessible– and more joyful. Timed with Mental Wellness Month in May, the campaign encourages people to prioritize their mental health through simple, everyday practices. With fun activities, downloadable resources, and creative partnerships across North Texas, Squeeze the Day invites everyone to treat mental wellness not just as a response to crisis, but as a daily habit worth celebrating.
Momentous Institute has been working at the intersection of education and mental health for over a century. Leading the charge is Dr. Jessica Gomez, the organization’s Executive Director and a longtime advocate for destigmatizing mental health. Under her leadership, Momentous is reframing wellness as something approachable, communal, and deeply rooted in our environment. “We want people to feel empowered,” said Dr. Gomez. “Mental health doesn’t need to be heavy—it can be joyful and healing.”
From nature-based activations like “Put Your Feet Up” at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson PGA Tournament—where guests are invited to ground themselves barefoot on the grass—to downloadable toolkits that support mental wellness at work, school, and home, the campaign meets people where they are. The underlying message is clear: mental health is for everyone.
One of the campaign’s most powerful themes is the often-overlooked connection between nature and emotional well-being. While people may not immediately associate places like the Dallas Arboretum with mental health, Dr. Gomez points out that these environments play a critical role.
“When you visit, you might not immediately think of it as a space for mental health,” Dr. Gomez says, “but being outdoors, getting sunlight, moving your body, and being in community all contribute to your well-being.”
“Research shows that the more disconnected we are from natural environments, the more our mental health can suffer,” Dr. Gomez explains.
Even 20 minutes outdoors—walking, soaking up sunshine, or listening to birds—can reduce stress, calm the brain, and support the body.
Another refreshing element of the campaign is its invitation to play—something often left behind in childhood.
“There’s a reason kids have recess—it’s about play, movement, and joy. But somewhere along the way, adults stop playing,” said Dr. Gomez. “We believe play should continue into adulthood, especially outdoors.”
Whether it’s jogging, stretching, or lying on a picnic blanket at White Rock Lake, the campaign highlights joy as a pathway to healing.
Dr. Gomez also emphasizes that mental wellness doesn’t require grand gestures or intense activity.
“It’s not about running a marathon or exercising for hours—it could be something as simple as stepping outside for fresh air when you’re stressed, letting the sun shine on you, or calling a friend for a quick lunch,” she said.
These seemingly small actions “can make a big difference” and even “truly save lives” by reducing shame and encouraging open conversations.
The campaign is also shaped by intentional partnerships with beloved North Texas institutions.
“We were very intentional with our partnerships, choosing spaces where people can connect with nature and experience the benefits for their mental health—places like the zoo, which you might not immediately think of as an outdoor, nature-based experience, but it absolutely is,” Dr. Gomez noted.
These connections expand what mental health care can look like—and where it can happen.
In addition to events, Momentous Institute has created three free downloadable guides focused on daily life: one for the workplace, one for schools, and one for families.
“These guides are free to download,” Dr. Gomez reminded, highlighting the accessibility of the resources. It’s not just awareness; it’s empowerment.
As we recognize Mental Wellness Month, the hope is that more people realize mental health isn’t reserved for times of crisis. It’s a lifelong journey that can start with small, joyful steps. That’s the heart of Momentous Institute’s mission: to make mental health a conversation anyone can join—regardless of age, background, or circumstance. Through free resources and community partnerships, they’re giving people the tools to care for their minds in ways that feel natural, doable, and even fun.
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