Hey there Doughp fam! 

When Doughp first opened its doors in 2017 our fearless leader, Kelsey Moreira, had a lot more in mind that just some kick-a$$ cookie dough! She was on a mission to reduce the social stigmas surrounding mental health & addiction; through her vulnerability, many of you have found the courage to open up the conversation with friends and family. 

Doughp has pledged to always keep it raw and real when it comes to mental health. This pledge is something anyone and everyone is able to be a part of, and that’s what I’m going to be doing today. Doughp has 3 steps you have to commit to though before taking the pledge. 

Step 1: Answer straight up when someone asks “how are you?”
     
      Well Doughp fam, I haven’t been too great lately. I’ve had a headache that feels like it’s been following me around all week and in just a few short days my college classes will be starting up again. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE college, probably a little too much, but the hustle of keeping up with school definitely gets to me sometimes. On those stressful days I like to turn to my dog, Ozzie. Somehow he always seems to be able to lift my spirits. He has a no F’s to give kind of attitude and the way he shakes his booty with excitement when he sees me MAKES. MY. DAY. He really is my superhero in doggy disguise! Just typing this little bit about him was enough to make me crack a smile. 



​Step 2: 2. Give & accept compliments without hesitation.

      Everyone loves dishing out a good compliment, but why does it feel sooo much weirder to accept them? This is definitely a step that I will have to work on after I take my pledge!! Giving compliments is a small way of brightening up someone's day, and while I do love my fair share at a compliment, giving them out is where the magic really happens! Seeing people smile over a simple sentence is what makes communication so unique. We as humans have the chance to lift up one another and it can even be as simple as telling them you like their nail polish. Think about the last time you gave out a compliment, if you can’t think of a recent one try to give one out today! You never know how this simple gesture with change someone's day.

Step 3: Keep an open door for anyone who is struggling.

    In my humble opinion, this step is the MOST important. We have the power to comfort and care for our fellow human beings. Why wouldn’t do our best to try? Whether it’s sitting with a family member in silence or taking a drive with a friend, reaching out and being a place of comfort for those who need it is a mission we all can succeed in. When we allow those who are hurting to find safety within us, it opens new doors for the conversation on mental health to begin. Being open to another’s struggles and not outcasting them for their pain helps ease the tension around wanting to share our feelings. People have bad days. We all have bad days. Why not make it easier to turn to others and confide in one another. I know that any time I have a loved one come to me with their pain I do my best to make sure they know how much love surrounds them. I never push them away or shame them for being real and raw with me. Life can’t always be rainbows and butterflies, so let’s try to help each other through the rain. 


Well Doughp fam, 
I took a chance today and pledged to make life a little sweeter for everyone around me.

If you want to get in on the action, sign the #Doughp4Hope Pledge!

Lots of love and a little bit of sprinkles, 
Jaclyn
Doughp Social Media Intern


P.S.
All of us here at Doughp are forever rooting for you.