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In a world where mental health challenges often feel isolating, one Philadelphia teenager is using his personal struggles to create a movement of hope and positivity. Eighteen-year-old Sammy Grossman has taken his battle with depression and anxiety and transformed it into something meaningful—a clothing brand called Project Spread Smiles.
For Grossman, the journey wasn’t easy. According to CBS News, he spent years grappling with feelings of isolation, particularly in school, where connecting with peers and making it through each day felt overwhelming. Therapy played a key role in helping him navigate his emotional struggles, but the real turning point came when he channeled his experiences into something larger—a brand that could uplift not only himself but others going through similar battles.
At the heart of Project Spread Smiles is a unique logo that speaks volumes without saying a word: a smiley face with one eye shaped like a semicolon. This small yet powerful symbol carries a deep message. As Grossman explains, "The meaning behind the semicolon is that you could have given up but you kept on going. You didn’t end up with a period but a comma, to keep going in life."
This simple yet profound design captures both the struggles and the resilience that come with mental health challenges. It’s become a way for Grossman to share his journey and remind others that, no matter how dark things may seem, there’s always hope to keep moving forward.
For Sammy’s parents, Alison and Craig Grossman, watching their son emerge from difficult days with a renewed sense of purpose has been nothing short of inspiring. “He’s not embarrassed to say that he had struggles, and he wants to use that in a positive way,” said Alison. Craig echoed the sentiment, calling the experience of watching Sammy’s transformation "extremely rewarding."
The symbolism behind Project Spread Smiles doesn’t stop with the semicolon. The smiley face is green—the color for mental health awareness—and each piece of clothing carries a message of kindness and encouragement. On the back of one of Grossman’s hoodies is the uplifting phrase, "Hey, to the person behind me... you look great today! Keep smiling." It’s a reminder that sometimes the smallest gestures of kindness can have the biggest impact on someone’s day.
Now a high school senior, Grossman is planning his future while continuing to grow his brand. With college decisions on the horizon, he has big dreams for Project Spread Smiles, hoping to expand the brand to include even more products that spread positivity and raise awareness for mental health.
Sammy Grossman’s story is a powerful example of how personal struggles can be transformed into something that inspires and supports others. Through his clothing brand, he is turning his pain into purpose, sharing the power of a smile to lift others up while continuing his own journey toward emotional wellness.
If you or your loved one are struggling with your mental health or addiction, take inspiration from Sammy Grossman, and reach out for the help you need to write a positive ending to your story. You deserve to live a happy life too, and Avenues Recovery will give you the tools to live a life of true contentment and joy. Contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.