Welcome to a special guest-edited edition of Afternoon Delight. You'll see a version of this newsletter here and there when we happen upon the opportunity to sit down and chat with a few of the better people and organizations out there.
Hi, how are you? We’re so happy to be here and offer a slice of our work that supports your well-being today and every day.
We’re the Hi, How Are You Project, an Austin-based nonprofit, inspired by the iconic Hi, How Are You mural painted by the late Daniel Johnston — a beloved songwriter and visual artist who lived with mental illness. With Daniel’s blessing, we were founded to honor his legacy and promote mental wellness, especially among young people.
We’re big believers in building connections through conversation. In fact, acts of kindness trigger the release of “feel-good” chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, which lift mood and lower stress. They also reinforce a sense of purpose and connection, two key buffers against anxiety and depression. Checking in with the people you care about is a great way to get started. We might be partial, but we recommend starting the conversation with, ”Hi, how are you?” *Wink, hint, wink.*
Birthday Party Planning Committee
Every January 22nd, we throw a city-wide birthday party for Daniel Johnston, complete with an unforgettable concert, special guests, and a powerful message: mental health matters. Hi, How Are You Day is a celebration of creativity, connection, and the courage to ask someone how they’re really doing. Past years have included Cage the Elephant, The Flaming Lips, Tunde Adebimpe of TV on the Radio, Andrew Bird, and many more. Mark your calendars. See you in Austin.
Mr Doodle x Jeremiah
We teamed up with artist Mr Doodle to create a limited edition collab depicting Daniel’s beloved Jeremiah the Innocent, to add some of Mr Doodle's signature flair. Both prolific doodlers, Daniel’s art and candidness about his mental health deeply influenced Mr Doodle, both in his creative style and his own decision to speak openly about mental health. This collaboration is a powerful fusion of two visionary artists connected by purpose and expression. You can shop our merch and the limited edition collab shirts here.
A Friendly Reminder
This newsletter wouldn’t be complete without the nudge to reach out to your family, friends, and community and ask how they’re doing. Here’s how to have a “Hi, how are you?” conversation.
Happy Habits
Happy Habits — six simple, science-backed practices that make it easier for anyone to nurture mental well-being. Each one can fit into your daily or weekly routine and provides a practical roadmap for feeling connected, balanced, and resilient.
Other Good News & Happenings
Somewhere to go. The mural.
Just another reason to be creative.
Mental health with Mt. Joy at Austin City Limits. Backstage passes activated.
The science of gratitude is real. Mel Robbins knows all about it.
How helping others can help yourself. Hey, that’s a nice thought.
