I was honored, and a little (okay a lot!) nervous to be invited as the featured speaker at Atascadero United Methodist Church as part of their annual Mental Health Awareness Sunday. The key word to me in that sentence is “annual”…..every year for the past few years they have set aside one Sunday in the month of May to shine a light on fact that mental illness is widespread and that we all need to do out part to break down the stigma that continues to persist. In a world where most people are still to frightened by the thought of mental illness to really begin to understand mental illness, this congregation is actively searching for understanding and for ways to turn that understanding into action.
I am not an expert. I am a mother with a story to tell. A story that I tell because I know there is great power in giving names to the things that feel frightening. A story that I hope helps to break down the stigma surrounding childhood and adolescent mental illness. A story that I know touched the hearts and minds of the people at Atascadero UMC this past weekend.
Take a look, and see if perhaps that story touches you as well…Bearing Each Other’s Burdens – Atascadero UMC; May 7, 2017
We're All A Little Broken 
Wonderful job! I watched the video, and as a mental health advocate and mother of a daughter who used to suffer anxiety and panic attacks, I totally relate to your message. That’s great you shared your testimony and are speaking out. Mental illness is sometimes so misunderstood, and if we share and talk about it, it’s a step toward breaking the stigma. I’m so glad we’ve connected. Take care, Jenny
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Thank you so much Jenny! It was incredibly nerve wracking, but so worth it. I am also so impressed with and inspired by the congregation of Atascadero UMC for providing an outlet for open conversation.
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Yes, that’s awesome that they were open to it. Little by little, awareness will spread. You should be proud of yourself!
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