In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Oct. 6-10, Northwest Missouri State University Wellness Services will sponsor a variety of events and opportunities for students to interact with peers and counselors in Professional Development and Counseling Services while learning about mental illness.
“The purpose of these events is to encourage students to seek help when they need it, reduce the negative stigma around mental illness and inform students that counseling is available to them at no additional charge through Personal Development and Counseling Services at Wellness Services,” said Courtney Koch, a counselor in Wellness Services.
Events will include speakers who are educated about mental health, yoga and meditation classes, among many others.
Northwest encourages students who are struggling with mental health issues to visit with a counselor at Wellness Services. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students also may make an appointment by calling Wellness Services at 660.562.1348. In case of a crisis, during non-business hours, students should call University Police at 660.562.1254 or the Support Line at 888. 279.8188.
A complete list of Mental Illness Awareness Week events are below.
Monday, Oct. 6
“Coffee with the Counselors” (10 to 11 a.m., B.D. Owens Library, Novel Grounds on the first floor): Counselors from Northwest’s Personal Development and Counseling Center will conduct a discussion about mental health and students may ask questions about Wellness Services.
“Hidden Pictures: A Personal Journey into Global Mental Health Screening” (7:30 to 9 p.m., J.W. Jones Student Union Boardroom): Award-winning filmmaker and physician Delaney Ruston, who grew up in the shadow of her dad’s schizophrenia, explores the hidden struggles faced by the 450 million people living with mental illness worldwide. Through deeply personal stories involving bipolar illness, depression, schizophrenia and anxiety in India, China, Africa, France and the U.S., “Hidden Pictures” reveals a global epidemic of silence around mental illness as well as moments of profound compassion and remarkable change. This event will include the one-hour documentary and 30 minutes to discuss reactions to the film.
Tuesday, Oct. 7
“Speaking Out for Mental Health” (5:30 to 6:30 p.m., The Station Center Room): Hy-Vee greeter Fred Mares, Professor of Psychology Dr. Carla Edwards, counselor Rhonda Lesley and health educator BK Taylor will share their stories, experiences and thoughts about mental health.
Wednesday, Oct. 8,
“In Our Own Voice: Living with Mental Illness” (4 to 5 p.m., The Station Center Room): The National Alliance on Mental Illness Kansas City will present “In Our Own Voice: Living with Mental Illness,” a program focused on spreading the message of recovery by living examples. It provides hope and opportunity to both the audience and the presenters. Participants should sign up by emailing Wellness Services at health@nwmissouri.edu with the event name, the participant’s name and S number.
“A Time of Reflection and Prayer for Mental Illness Recovery” (5:30 to 5:45 p.m., Memorial Bell Tower): The Personal Development and Counseling Services will celebrate Mental Illness Awareness Week at the Bell Tower in honor of the National Day of Prayer for Mental Illness Recovery. One counselor will discuss mental illness to promote awareness, and attendees will be invited to silently reflect or pray for mental illness recovery.
Thursday, Oct. 9
Wellness Fair (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Student Union Ballroom): Counselors will pass out free popcorn at the event. Rhonda Lesley, counselor and registered yoga teacher, will teach yoga and Counselor Mike Mattock will lead meditation.
Friday, Oct. 10
“Go Green Day”
In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Northwest students, employees and community members are invited to wear green or lime green to support mental health awareness.
“How Are You Doin’?” (11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Student Union second floor)
In honor of National Depression Screening Day and World Mental Health Day, students can take a brief questionnaire to see how they are doing and receive a free sports water bottle.