In 1990, the U.S. Congress established the first full week of October as Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) in recognition of NAMI’s efforts to raise mental illness awareness.
Since then, mental health advocates across the country have joined with others in their communities to sponsor activities, large or small, for public education about mental illness.
October 4, Tuesday free and open to the general public
Location & Time::ICC North, Poplar Hall, Room 132, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Speakers:Susan ONeal & Owen Johnson
Topic:NAMIs Ending the Silence. A program to help middle and high schoolers understand the warning signs of mental illness and the reality of living with the disorder.
A young adult living with mental illness and a family member tell their stories about mental health challenges including what hurt and what helped.
October 6, Thursday free and open to the general public
Location & Time:ICC North, Poplar Hall, Room 132, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Topic: Ask the Professionals Panel
Patricia Edwards, LCSW, ACSW, Therapist Christopher Gillette, PharmD, BCPP, Pharmacist
Jay Rawal, MD, PsychiatristDean Steiner, LCPC, Exec. Dir, Behavioral Health
These knowledgeable professionals will answer questions from the audience.
October 8, Saturday Jason DeShaw Concert
Tickets$10, available by calling 309 693-0541
Location: Illinois Central College, E. Peoria Campus, Performing Arts Center
Time:7 p.m.; open seating, so come early
What: Serenity in the Storm, a story of recovery with songs of hope sung by national award-winning speaker and country singer Jason DeShaw.
Jason shares his journey with alcoholism and mental illness.
Meet and greet Jason after the performance and enjoy cake celebrating NAMI Tri-Countys 35th anniversary of helping people in this area who are dealing with behavioral health issues.
Proceeds benefit NAMI Tri-County Illinois