Take 8: Eight Minutes That Can Change a Day

Take 8 invites people to take eight minutes to check in with someone who may be struggling. They can call, text, listen, or simply sit with a colleague and ask, "How are you really doing?" A short, caring conversation can open the door to support before distress becomes a crisis. Anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts can call or text 988.

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A Safe Space on Set

Film and entertainment careers can bring long hours, irregular schedules, travel, job insecurity, pressure to perform, and exposure to stressful or traumatic events. Many professionals work behind the scenes, and stigma can make it hard to ask for help. Take 8 helps normalize conversations about mental health, stress, trauma, and suicide prevention so crew members, performers, and production teams know where to turn.

Trauma-Informed Education and Workshops

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Our team has spent two years developing education tailored to the realities of production work. Through partnerships with IATSE members and Georgia Entertainment Partners, Nichols Center offers workshops that help participants:

• Recognize signs of stress, burnout, and trauma

• Build practical coping and resilience strategies

• Start supportive conversations with coworkers

• Learn how to connect peers to crisis and community resources

 

Culturally Responsive Partnerships

Nichols Center's partnership with GAILFF connects mental health and suicide-awareness messaging with Latino filmmakers, artists, and audiences. Film festival participation and panel discussions create culturally responsive access to information and support. This approach honors the diversity of Georgia's creative community.

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Reducing Stigma Through Storytelling

Entertainment shapes how people understand the world. By working with creative professionals, Take 8 helps change public conversations about mental health and encourages early help-seeking, both on set and in the communities that watch the stories being told.

 

Leadership and Vision

Under the leadership of Executive Director Tara Nichols, LPC, Nichols Center has expanded from local family support and first-responder resilience to industry-wide mental health education. By combining clinical expertise, community partnerships, and creative collaboration, Take 8 helps build a stronger, more connected entertainment community.

 

Get Involved

Invite Nichols Center to bring a Take 8 workshop to your production, union local, or company, or join us at an upcoming event. Contact us at 404-736-2267 or visit nicholscenter.org.