How can you tell if someone’s suffering from a mental illness? Unlike a cast for a broken bone or a red, runny nose, symptoms of mental illness are often hard to pinpoint, especially given the range and degree of conditions. In fact, you may even have a friend or colleague that’s currently suffering from some form of mental illness without even knowing it. And you will never know unless you ask—unless you have an open conversation and say two important words: “me too.”
Despite campaigns and groups advocating for more awareness around the issue, we’re often oblivious to the silent struggles of the individuals around us. In order to shed further light on the issue and build true acceptance and awareness, the most powerful thing is to encourage open conversations around mental illness. This means sharing stories and asking (sometimes uncomfortable) questions.
In an effort to do just that, the VGH & UBC Foundation is hosting Me Too Conversations, a series of events where individuals with mental illnesses share their personal stories of hope, resilience and innovation. The inaugural event will kick off a series of three free sessions that feature speakers who embody the idea of "me too" through their inspiring stories. Andrew Jensen, a professional golfer, will speak about his journey with depression and attempted suicide, shattering stigma along the way. Alongside him, Tracy and Gail Windsor, who share diverse experiences in the mental health community, as well as Dr. Christine Korol, a psychologist who's overcome panic attacks and general anxiety, will add their views on demystifying mental illness while promoting community and caring.
Established with the goal of improving specialized health care and research for British Columbians through harnessing the power of philanthropy, the VGH & UBC Foundation encourages anyone who wishes to learn more about mental illness to attend Me Too Conversations. Whether you come out simply to listen to the speakers’ amazing stories of struggle and triumph or to join the conversation by sharing your own personal tales, the VGH & UBC Foundation aims to provide an open environment for sharing and discussion. It’s time for you to say me too, too.
When: October 21, 2015 at 7pm (doors at 6pm)
Where: SFU Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, 149 West Hastings St.
RSVP: RSVP for Me Too Conversations and find out more about the event
If two words can make such a big difference, imagine what a story can do. Come out and hear these stories on October 21 and be a part of the change.
Can't make the event October 21? Stay tuned for more upcoming events in the Me Too series that will encourage you to open up and say these two very important words.
