I had an opportunity today to deliver a presentation to 400 middle school kids about Mental Illness. I talked about my struggles with bipolar disorder and then went on to discuss how common mental illness is. The kids were amazing! They were engaged and asked very insightful questions.
Before the kids came into the auditorium I turned to one of the NAMI Board Members and said, “it has been my dream for four years to deliver a presentation on Mental Illness in the schools. I guess that dream is coming true today.” As I watched those kids filter into the auditorium I was touched by the fact that one in five would deal with a mental illness. I knew if I could just impact one I would have done my job.
At the end of the presentation the kids asked so many great questions. They wanted to know which was harder for me to deal with “the mania or the depression.” They ask me to clarify what stigma meant and they tried their best to understand other terms.
What really touched my heart was a little girl who came up to me afterwards and told me that on her walk home from school she crosses a bridge everyday. And everyday she deals with suicidal thought that tell her to “jump.” I responded by telling her she mattered and that those thoughts are telling her a lie. “Don’t believe those lies!” I encouraged and as she walked away I hoped she would always remember those words, “you matter!”
So today is the beginning of my efforts to use my gifts and talents and reach out to touch others lives. Those who are impacted by mental illness and those who may be affected in the future.
Today, I feel proud to have taken one small step forward to helping remove the stigma of mental illness. Hoping that the next generation is more informed and educated than I was.
Making a difference one person at a time!
Congratulations, Amy, for achieving your goal. I’m sure you touched many of those students’ hearts. I’m proud of you. You’ve worked hard to get where you are today.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your kind comments!
It is wonderful that you had the chance to tell your story and help others who may one day be dealing with a mental illness.
Thank you Amy!
Very inspiring and so important for this message to reach children at a young age. Through awareness and education we can reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Thank you for stepping up, doing your part and trying to make positive connections!
Thanks Vic greatly appreciate the encouragement!
I Know you really changed things for her.
I hope so….I am glad she was willing to talk about it. That’s a good step.
Dear Amy, you summed it all so well in the following words: ” Today, I feel proud to have taken one small step forward to helping remove the stigma of mental illness. Hoping that the next generation is more informed and educated than I was….” I can only say whoop whoop whoop pretty woman – Don’t give up because you so matter 🙂
Marie,
Thank you so much! I am inspired by your encouragement!! So looking forward to more educational presentations. Thanks again!
Awesome. I hope the girl also got connected to support services.
Yes I suggested she see the school counselor.