Blog #1 - This is Me

It all began with an idea. I wanted to do something where I felt like I could make a difference in the world. So, after many hours of brainstorming, I finally came up with Smile Again. My whole reason behind the company is that I know mental health doesn’t get talked about enough, and I wanted to change that narrative. I believe Smile Again can be a place where we make mental health a priority for all. I wanted to create pieces of clothing (art) that reflect the notion of strength, vulnerability, and compassion.

My name is Nick Maas, I am the founder and owner of Smile Again Co. I am a recent graduate of Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. During my time in college, I dealt with a variety of mental health issues. I experienced anxiety, panic attacks, mood swings, even some serious depression. There was a time when I felt like I could barely make it through the day. I was terrified. I even had the thought of would I be better off alive. Luckily for me, I had countless people that helped me through the most difficult times of my life. To this day, I still deal with many mental health issues but the people in my life continue to help me persevere through dark times.

So many people are affected by mental health, however, it doesn’t define you as a person. This is why I created this company, that I am so proud of. I felt like I could make a difference in people’s lives that are struggling mentally. I wanted to be an outlet for people to be vulnerable and embrace their struggles. Everyone deserves to feel happy, comfortable, and confident in their own skin. I encourage this community to reach out to those that are struggling and show that you want only the best for them.

Here at Smile Again, mental health is our top priority and we hope that it will become a priority for you as well. Whether it’s making your own mental health a priority or helping someone else’s. With every order, 20% will be donated to various mental health non-profits to help those in need. I even hope to have my own foundation one day :).

I hope my message can help encourage people to take care of themselves. Do something they enjoy and surround yourselves with people you care about and that care about you!! Remember, there’s always a reason to smile. :)

Your mental health is a priority. Your self-care is a necessity. Your happiness is an essential.

Keep Smiling,

Nick