Normalize the Conversation

Presentation Description

Join Francesca as she shares her journey from struggling with her mental health to becoming a survivor and advocate. Francesca will talk about why it's important to normalize conversations about mental health and how you can support someone who is struggling. Together, you will explore breaking the stigma around mental health to encourage others to seek support and practical ways to start these important conversations in your community.

During the session, there will be an opportunity to make an encouragement card with a message of hope for people struggling, which will be donated to a patient hospitalized in a psych ward.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the Importance of Talking About Mental Health: Break the stigma by actively listening and engaging in mental health conversations that help people feel less isolated and more supported.

2. Learn How to Support Someone Who Opens Up: Develop effective communication skills and empathetic language to provide meaningful support.

3. Discover Ways to Start Conversations in Your Community: Gain practical strategies for initiating mental health dialogues. Participants will engage in an activity to bring hope into their community.

Learn More:
Eastern Illinois University :: Annual Bonine Suicide Prevention Conference (eiu.edu)