Austin Coffee Shops Unite for Mental Health Awareness on Hi, How Are You Day

A group of Austin coffee shops are coming together for Hi, How Are You Day on January 22. This is a citywide event to raise awareness about mental health that was inspired by the late music star Daniel Johnston. Johnston was known for the emotional purity of his music, but he also had manic-depressive schizophrenia. This project honors his memory by pushing people in Austin to say, "Hi, how are you?"

Coffee shops that are taking part will have unique cup sleeves and playlists that are inspired by Johnston's music, which will make it easier for people to have deep talks. The main venue, Cosmic Saltillo, will sell Yeti mugs, hats, and other items to raise money for the cause. Other well-known places in the city, such as Radio Coffee, Cenote, and Houndstooth, will also join the cause.

Hi, How Are You Day is part of the Hi, How Are You Project, a group that works on mental health issues, mainly among college students. There is a press release that says to check in with "a neighbor, friend, coworker, family member, or loved one" to build neighborhood relationships and raise awareness about mental health.

The event ends on January 24 with a benefit show at the Paramount Theater with Andrew Bird and Madison Cunningham. Tickets start at $44.

This thoughtful day of action celebrates Johnston's life and his famous album Hi, How Are You: The Unfinished Album, which came out in 1983. The album's cover art, a silly drawing of a "frog," became famous around the world when Kurt Cobain wore it on a T-shirt. This solidified its place in pop culture and mental health awareness. Visit hihowareyou.org to find out more.

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