The Mental Health Speakers Bureau is a group of persons who receive services from Community Mental Health Services of Muskegon and Ottawa Counties who have received training to speak publicly about recovery and stigma. Participants in the Speakers' Bureau present at local schools, agencies, conferences and other recovery-focused events.
The title of one of the group's workshops is "Why it Matters." This presentation focuses on the fact that conditions that affect the mind are illnesses, just like heart disease and diabetes, and people with mental illnesses deserve comparable care to those with physical illnesses. "That's why it matters," say members of the Speakers' Bureau.
To reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health disorders, the Speakers' Bureau is available to present to your organization free of charge. Courageous individuals with a wide array of lived experiences share their stories of hope and recovery and invite you to "take a closer look."
Learn more about this Speakers' Bureau and link to recovery videos.
By LaTia Chappell, CPSS
Michigan Recovery Center Of Excellence