What the Students Have to Say...

"Doing what we can to erase the stigma on mental health is important because, if we succeed in doing that people will not be afraid of being called crazy if they admit that they have an illness.  If there is no stigma more people will feel free to get the kind of help that they need to get better." - Naomi

"I think doing this project was important because we are trying to help get rid of the stigma around mental health. If there is more awareness about it, people who have it could know they’re not alone. There would be a better chance of people getting help if they weren't scared of the stigma, and they would be able to learn more about mental health." - Dawn

"I feel that getting mental illness more noticed is important because it is a very serious topic and so many people are affected by mental illness. There is a negative stigma towards mental illness and a lot of rumors that aren’t true. I feel that by making this video we are doing our part to get rid of some of the stigma and let people know that these rumors are not true. It is ok to get help. People need to know that they are not weird because they have a mental illness, it’s an illness just like any other illness and it is time for it to start being taken seriously." - Sam

"Mental illness is nothing to hide. It is not the cover to your book of life, it is merely a few sentences maybe a paragraph. It does not define who you are, who you want to be, or who you’re going to be. That’s up to you, and what you decide to do about it.

But why is this important? Its important to know you aren't alone, you aren't crazy and it can get better. It’s important to know that there are people who won’t judge you, who believe in the cause of bringing mental illness to light. And even if it is indirectly, they believe in you. It’s not just important to remember, but it is necessary to know no one on Earth is perfect, but our flaws make us even more amazing people. A mental illness is just one thing in your life, or someone else’s, that doesn't have to define you, but enhance you. You can work with it, you can get past this and you can find help. " - Isabell

"Talking is crucial! Talking about it can help erase the stigma associated with a mental illness. The stigma is a strong barrier that holds people back from talking about their illness." - Ashlyn

"What we’re doing is important, because people shouldn't be criticized for having a mental illness! They aren't weird or strange in anyway! They’re people, like everyone else!" - Kelton

"This project made me take a step back and reflect on a lot of things including myself. During this project I learned a lot! Now I can see that mental illness is everywhere and it affects a lot of people. It is important to know that other people have mental illness, you’re not alone." - Ferron