Session to offer information on mental illness

The Psychological Services and Research Centre will host a discussion for students struggling with mental illness on Tuesday, November 22, at 4:30 p.m. in Vanier Hall’s Oak Room.

Beautiful Minds will share stories of individuals living satisfying lives despite a mental health disability, says Annette Dufresne. She hopes the ensuing discussion will help the centre develop treatments and support groups to help meet the needs of students affected by an ongoing mental illness.

Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age, social class, culture, ethnicity, or strength of character, says Dr. Dufresne. The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health reports that one in five Canadians will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, and symptoms of many mental illnesses first emerge during the late-teen and early-adult years.

“It is important for the entire campus community to join the fight against the stigma associated with mental illness,” she says. “It is key to our developing appropriate supports so that individuals affected by a mental health disability can succeed in school and in life. The more we talk openly about mental illness and mental health, the more we can do in terms of prevention, early treatment, ongoing supports, and creating an environment that is conducive to everyone being able to work to their potential.”