Silence to Support: Navigating Depression and Anxiety with Compassion

Raymond Braun, a Calm contributor, LGBTQ advocate, and marketing executive, launched YouTube’s first LGBTQ+ marketing initiative at Google. He’s a leading voice for LGBTQ+ issues, serving as a contributing editor for Seventeen magazine, and recognized on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list. In 2023, he set two World Records by completing 7 Olympic Distance triathlons on 7 continents in 7 days, marking his recovery journey from OCD. Collaborating with institutions like the White House Summit and Stanford University, he advocates for social impact, promoting diversity, and raising mental health awareness. 

Joshua Bassett is an American actor, singer-songwriter, and musician best known for his role in Disney Plus’s “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” Raised in Oceanside, California, as one of six children and homeschooled, Bassett developed his artistic voice through early experiences in musical theater, songwriting, and filmmaking. Despite facing insecurities about his lack of formal education and the challenges of fitting in, he credits his unconventional upbringing for fostering his creativity and resilience. Bassett’s career took off when he landed the lead role in the Disney+ series, allowing him to showcase both his acting and musical talents. Throughout his journey, he has been open about his struggles with imposter syndrome, mental health, addiction, and the pressures of fame, using his platform to advocate for vulnerability, self-acceptance, and mental health awareness. His music and storytelling draw deeply from personal experience, and in recent years, he has spoken about the transformative role of faith and community in his life. Through his work and advocacy, Bassett continues to inspire others to embrace authenticity and connection, emphasizing that true strength lies in accepting one’s imperfections.

Asha Patton Smith, MD is a board-certified adult, adolescent and child psychiatrist that has been a member of the Mid Atlantic Permanente Medical Group since 2006. She is currently Regional Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry and Assistant Chief of Psychiatry for the Northern Virginia Service Area. 

While at MAPMG, Dr Patton Smith has served several roles. She was the lead utilization management consultant for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in the NOVA service area and a MAPMG Physician Ambassador. She served as chairman of the Kaiser Permanente Mid Atlantic Permanente Behavioral Health Peer Review Committee from 2012-2017. She has been a Northern Virginia Magazine Top Doctor for several years and she has been top doctor in Washingtonian Magazine as well. Over the last five years she has been discussing the importance of mental health understanding and support through numerous local television and radio appearances.

Her passion for advocacy extends beyond the clinic and media, as she regularly participates in community outreach initiatives focused on destigmatizing mental illness and supporting youth resilience. Dr. Patton Smith is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals, offering guidance and inspiration to medical students and residents navigating the evolving field of psychiatry. Whether collaborating with multidisciplinary teams or speaking at professional conferences, she strives to foster a culture of empathy, evidence-based care, and holistic wellness. Through her multifaceted work, Dr. Patton Smith continues to make a meaningful impact on patients, colleagues, and the broader community.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, son, daughter and law and adorable dog, Sophie. She also enjoys powerlifting, hiking and fishing with her family.