This week, students and staff alike gathered in the Courter Center to join a health and wellness workshop aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The workshop was led by DMACC’s very own Campus Wellness Specialist/Registered Nurse, Lori Zahnd, alongside Counselor Michael Borst. The pair covered a few key topics, including that no one has to face hardship alone and that help is available. Another key point they covered was that mental health challenges do not discriminate and can affect anyone at any point in their life.
They went on to discuss that being able to recognize when you need help and being willing to reach out for support is not a sign of weakness but shows self-awareness and resilience. There was also an emphasis on being able to have open conversations about what is going on to help break the stigma of having to go through challenges alone. A few students were given the opportunity to express the challenges they have faced and the different avenues they have taken to better their mental and physical health. The workshop came to an end with the pair assuring students and staff in the crowd that mental health conditions can be treated or managed with appropriate therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or social support.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor via email: counseling@dmacc.edu