Between Two Minds: The Staglin Family

Garen Staglin, Founder and Chairman of One Mind, reflected on his life’s work in brain health. As he contemplated stepping down in the next few years, he weighed how to pass along this legacy to his son, Brandon Staglin, the impetus behind and next generation of the family’s landmark nonprofit. Founded in response to Brandon’s psychotic break in 1990, One Mind confronted the stunning deficits in basic brain health research and care in the United States through research, funding, and public awareness efforts. While Brandon had already taken on much of the responsibility for the organization in his capacity as One Mind’s President, the organization’s board might still choose another candidate as his successor. On a professional level, would Brandon’s authenticity as someone who was personally impacted by mental illness lend the organization greater authority in its mission? On a personal level, how could the stress of such a role impact Brandon’s wellbeing? Given Brandon’s long-standing commitment to the organization, how can the family navigate this thorny issue weighing the needs of the family, external actors, and One Mind itself?
The contents of this case contain material about mental health challenges and suicide. Some readers may find elements of this material distressing. If you are experiencing emotional crisis or distress, please contact a local mental health professional or your local suicide prevention hotline. In the U.S., you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org/chat.