The importance of openly discussing mental illness and overcoming its associated stigma will be the focus of a presentation at Northern Michigan University on Thursday, Sept. 26. English Professor Kia Jane Richmond, author of Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature: Exploring Real Struggles Through Fictional Characters, will lead the discussion at 7 p.m. in Jamrich 1100. The event is free and open to the public.
Richmond will address how the stigma of mental illness can prevent people from discussing and seeking help for conditions such as depression, anxiety and suicide. Her book explores how mental illness is portrayed in 21st century young adult fiction and how selected works can help teachers, librarians and mental health professionals to more effectively address the needs of students combating mental illness.
NMU's School of Education, Leadership and Public Service is sponsoring this event.
