NAMI NH Offers Help at PSU's Mental Health Forum

The National Alliance on Mental Illness collaborated with PSU's Mental Health Issues course to conduct the Mental Health Forum on campus Oct., 9. Members of NAMI's 'In Our Own Voice Program' spoke of their recoveries to raise awareness on the issues. 

 "Those who don't have issues like these don't understand. People who aren't exposed to it don't understand it. But there are people out there who do understand," speaker Meg Scott stated during the forum. Scott's involvement with NAMI helped with her recovery after she noticed her first symptoms and realized she wanted help. The organization supports Scott and every member to figure out a plan and treatment towards recovery from mental illness.

"Progress is not linear. It doesn't work like better...better...cured," Scott stated. Anyone affected by mental illness can start their progress towards recovery in NAMI's peer, family, or parent support groups. Members of the groups share their experiences with their own mental illness or those of a family member. The connections made in these support groups provide opportunities to learn strategies and skills to cope with the challenges of mental illness. According to NAMI's website, research has shown the support of families and peers is critical to the path of recovery. 

NAMI's ultimate goal is to improve the lives of all people affected by mental illness. The organization advocates for improved access to services and science-based practices to promote recovery and resilience. As stated on their website, "We fight stigma and discrimination by educating our leaders, the media and the public. By dispelling myths, stereotypes and prejudice, we also build awareness that mental illness is an illness like any other."

The speakers of the forum shared their stories with PSU to inspire students to reach out if they need help. College campuses have enough resources to help everyone and PSU's counseling center is open to anyone. NAMI NH can be contacted through their website, NAMINH.org. To anyone who needs help, Scott states, "Don't ever be ashamed. Life is much happier when you get help."