On Thursday March 15 at 7:30 pm at the MTCC Welcome Center, Active Minds presents the Heard Speaker, an Active Minds national speakers bureau program. One out of four college-age students suffer some kind of diagnosable mental health crisis, and yet most refuse to seek help because of the stigma associated with having a mental illness. Active Minds is here to change the conversation about mental health and help students realize there is no shame or weakness in struggling with a mental illness, same as dealing with a physical illness. One of the best ways to further this idea is have a conversation with someone who is open about their mental health battles.

Margaret Bertram (who works for Active Minds) will give a 45-minute talk about her personal life story of mental illness, coming out and recovery. Afterwards, there will be time for a discussion panel with representatives from Active Minds, GLAM and the Counseling Center, followed by a dessert social graciously provided by the Student Health and Wellness Center.

You can also participate in an on-campus focus group pertaining to the Heard Speaker program on Friday, March 16 from 1 – 2:30 pm. Eight to ten students who attend the event will be invited to attend the focus group. Participants will receive $20 upon completing the focus group. If you are interested in being a part of this group, you must pre-register by emailing activeminds.iit@gmail.com.