(updated April 1, 2021)

Active Minds and the Behavioral Science Association at Northwest Missouri State University will host “I Will Listen,” an event aimed at reducing stigmas surrounding mental illness and promoting discussions about mental health disorders.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 7, in the J.W. Jones Student Union Boardroom. Attendees will be required to follow Northwest’s mitigation rules during all activities.

The event will include short yoga, Zumba and meditation sessions along with an art exhibit inviting community members to express their experiences with mental health.

“We are trying to make sure we are addressing multiple areas of wellness because we know when our bodies are well our minds are well, and when our spirit is well our mind is well,” Elizabeth Dimmitt, a senior instructor of psychology in the School of Health Science and Wellness, said.

Attendees will also learn coping mechanisms and participate in open discussions about mental health challenges. Speakers will discuss experiences with mental health disorders and ways to regulate well-being. Speakers include Kristen Peltz, assistant director of wellness services; Anthony Williams, a lieutenant with the University Police Department; Dr. Rebecca Moore, an assistant professor of professional education; and Monica Zeigel, Northwest’s Hope-4-All coordinator.  

“The overarching goal is to create a community that’s aware that we all struggle with mental wellness,” Dr. Amy Barton, an assistant professor of psychology said. “That’s something that touches all of our hearts and all of us personally.”

The event also will feature drawings, paintings, graphic designs, pottery, sculpture, photography, mixed medium work and poetry submitted by youth, college students and Northwest faculty and staff. Attendees will be invited to vote on the artwork, and prizes for first, second and third places will be awarded in each age category.

For more information, contact Dimmitt at ekeane@nwmissouri.edu or 660.562.1852.