In this episode of the Landmark Difference Makers Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jacqui Ancelin-Campbell, founder of the Julian Campbell Foundation (JCF). Established in memory of her brother Julian, who tragically took his own life in 2007, JCF is dedicated to supporting young people’s mental health through early intervention, emotional resilience training, and drama-based therapy.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Jacqui’s journey began with an unbearable loss. Losing her brother to suicide was devastating, but it ignited a determination to ensure other families wouldn’t have to experience the same heartbreak. Initially overwhelmed with grief, she struggled for two years to take action, but through personal development and leadership training, she was able to channel her pain into creating a foundation that provides life-saving mental health support for young people.
The Power of Mood Mentoring and Drama Therapy
At the heart of JCF’s approach is Mood Mentoring, a one-on-one support system that helps children and teens manage anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Unlike traditional academic mentoring, Mood Mentors focus on emotional intelligence, resilience, and coping strategies—skills that are critical in today’s fast-changing world.
JCF also uses drama-based therapy, a unique method that allows young people to explore their emotions through storytelling, role-playing, and interactive workshops. Schools often invite JCF to address bullying, social media pressures, and body image issues, helping students navigate their challenges in a safe and supportive environment.
A Growing Mental Health Crisis
Mental health issues among young people have increased dramatically over the past few decades. Jacqui highlights how social media, cyberbullying, and increased academic pressures have created new challenges that previous generations didn’t face. While mental health struggles were once rare among children, they are now widespread, making early intervention more crucial than ever.
Supporting Parents Alongside Teens
Jacqui also emphasizes the critical role of parents in supporting their children’s mental well-being. Many parents feel helpless when faced with their child’s struggles, and JCF provides parent workshops to equip them with tools to listen, communicate, and create safe spaces for their children. Simple actions—like dedicating 20 minutes a day for meaningful conversation—can make a profound difference in a child’s sense of security and belonging.
Expanding the Mission
Looking ahead, Jacqui envisions JCF expanding globally, ensuring that Mood Mentors become as essential in schools as academic mentors. Already active in the UK, the foundation has begun work in the U.S., South America, and other regions, responding to the universal need for mental health support.
The Role of Landmark in Her Journey
Jacqui credits Landmark’s programs with giving her the tools and confidence to take action. Before participating in Landmark’s courses, she struggled to move forward with her vision. However, through the Introduction Leaders Program and Team Management & Leadership Program, she learned how to build teams, scale her impact, and create lasting change.
A Call to Action
This episode is a reminder that mental health support for young people isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about the future generation, you have the power to make a difference.
✨ Want to hear Jacqui’s full story? Listen to the episode now and discover how early intervention and emotional intelligence training are changing young lives.
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