This year’s Words Outspoken Summit was hosted on virtuallyNovember 20 via YouTube. Words Outspoken focusses on artists using their craft to address mental health in way that connects with the minds and hearts of both the general public and viewers of the art.
The event, hosted by Community Medical Centers, was a safe room for those who needed a space for support as they experienced the emotional and thought-provoking artists’ works that may provide the courage to seek professional help.
The event was booked with many artists and groups from the local community including Arion Grimm, Giovanni Tilley, Tama Brisbaine, Jan Marlese, Mo Benincasa, Julie Jose, Paula Sheil, Christine Noguera and many more. Many of these artists in attendance shared the goal of working towards improving the local community’s views on mental health while also creating awareness around the many different forms of mental health issues that individuals may experience.
The artists spoke on how to help those in the community and what individuals can do to help create awareness for those in need of support.
“Honestly, I would have to say take your time in healing because every day is going to be just another day. Smile just a little bit more, laugh even if it’s hard,” explained Grimm.
One of the artists in attendance was Lavell Jackson, a youth mentor in the local community. Jackson took time during the event to share his experience in assisting a younger demographic in addressing issues related to mental health.
“I see potential, I see growth I see a reason for them to keep going to stay motivated, my goal when I talk to the youth and I see that they struggle, some may have attitude’s some may be emotional when it comes to certain circumstances that they didn’t win in life and that sparks something in me to want to just continue and motivate them and be a light,” explained Jackson.
For students seeking help related to mental health, Stan State provides psychological counseling services to all enrolled students.
While the Psychological Counseling Services office is currently closed due to construction, services will be offered in a remote format in order to assist any students seeking counseling or guidance.