Week raises awareness about mental illness

Oct.3-9 is national Mental Illness Awareness Week, declared by the US Congress to recognize the efforts of the National Alliance on Mental Illness to promote awareness of mental illness, put a stop to stigma and advocate for support of treatment and recovery. 

The theme of Mental Illness Awarenss Week this year is “Changing Attitudes … Changing Lives.” 

Focusing on this theme, NAMI Far North has invited Dr. Foster Cline, internationally-known child and adult psychiatrist, to address the community in the Panida Theater on Wednes-day, Oct. 6, at 7 p.m.

The theme “Chang-ing Attitudes … Changing Lives” will come alive through Dr. Cline’s engaging and effervescent presentation style as he shares challenging and inspiring stories of mental illness, treatment, recovery and hope based on his long experience and wise perspective. As the public gains insight into the neurobiological nature of these illnesses and acquires understanding of the abilities and limitations of people who live with them, the hope is that the stigma will decrease and compassion will grow, leading to more just and equitable treatment of people with mental illness in our community. 

With changes in people’s attitudes toward mental illness, the lives of all of us — whether we suffer from a mental illness or love someone who does — will be changed in a positive way.

 Dr. Cline’s presentation will be offered to the community free of charge, thanks to assistance from the Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation, Fund for Idaho, A New Hope Social Services and Bonner County Human Rights Task Force.  If you or someone you know suffers from a mental illness, or if you’d simply like to learn more about this challenging issue, take this opportunity to attend Dr. Cline’s informative and inspiring presentation.

Lynda Metz is the director of community development at Bonner General Hospital.