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'Stop the Stigma': An unfiltered look at mental illness

It does not have to be demonized: Everyday people -- one in five people -- experienced mental illness in some way or another.
Credit: 10News
Anika Morton, Hannah Jines, Georgia Ann Cowell, Adriana Wagner and Charlie Provenza.

This is “Stop the Stigma”: A project born from too many tragedies involving questions of mental health.

Through powerful storytelling – straight from the people brave enough to talk freely – watch as stereotypes of mental illness and those suffering from them are broken down. Go ahead, stand in a room with five people – at least one person has experienced mental illness.

It can affect anyone.

“Stop the Stigma” is an unfiltered look at mental illness through the eyes and words of everyday people in our community. You’ll see a young mother navigating anxiety and depression, a father’s suffering, a daughter reeling from loss after suicide, a counselor’s frustration and a woman’s everyday battle with schizophrenia.

A father’s story: In death, Charlie Provenza’s son is at peace

Adriana Wagner, a counselor: Mental illness is a ‘crisis’ in society

Anika Morton, now in therapy, copes with anxiety and depression

Georgia Ann Cowell, dealing with bipolar and schizophrenia, bounces back from homelessness

Hannah Jines’ father wrote her a letter: ‘Dear princess,’ it began. He never delivered it.

They are the faces and voices of mental health. Each came forward to share their story with hopes of stopping the stigma attached to the words “mental illness.”

For those suffering in silence, “Stop the Stigma” also provides resources. This series is here to help others realize they are not alone and help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Mental health does not have to be demonized. It’s treatable, and it’s not what you think.

More: Question about mental health? Resources connect you to need-to-know information

Related: By the numbers: 14 interesting facts, statistics on mental illness

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