Keene State Hosts Mental Illness Awareness Week

Keene State College will join mental-health advocates across the country next week to celebrate Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW). The U.S. Congress established MIAW in 1990 to raise awareness, promote early detection and accurate diagnosis, and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

Monday – Friday, October 6 – 10
Information Tables by Active Minds Student Organization; noon – 3 p.m. in the Student Center Atrium

Tuesday, October 7

• De-Stigmatizing Mental Illness, poster displays by the Wellness Living & Learning Community; 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in the Student Center Atrium
• Inspiring Hope: Stories of Breakthrough or Resolution while Facing Life’s Challenges, performed by ActingOut; 6:30 p.m. in the Night Owl Café, Student Center

Using Playback Theatre, the ActingOut company will explore issues of mental health, family struggles, school, and peer challenges. The performers will ask audience members for stories from their own lives.

Wednesday, October 8

• The Challenge of Coping with a Mental Illness at College, student panel luncheon; noon, Mountain View Room, Student Center

KSC students living with mental illness share their challenges and successes. Hosted by the KSC Diversity Commission, a light lunch will be served.

• In Our Own Voice, panel and discussion; 7 p.m., Madison Street Lounge, Student Center

Presenters from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the Granite State Monarchs, and the Counseling Center will share their stories of struggle and success as they have lived with mental illness. Refreshments provided by First Course and sponsored by the Monadnock Center for Successful Transitions.

For more information, contact Forrest Seymour, 8-2047.