COMMERCE, TX—A&M-Commerce welcomes Kevin Hines as the 2018 Mental Health Matters Day Keynote speaker, for his presentation Cracked, Not Broken, on April 2 at 2 p.m. in Ferguson Auditorium.
In 2000, two years after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Hines attempted to take his own life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. In the 20 years since his diagnosis, Hines has been a mental health advocate, receiving numerous accolades for his work. Hines has also produced a documentary, and released two bestselling books aimed at suicide prevention. He sits on several boards including the Survivors Committee of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, in addition to his policy work as an Ambassador to the National Council for Behavioral Health.
“We’re excited to have Kevin as our keynote to help challenge the stigma of mental health help-seeking,” said Dr. Nick Patras, Director of the university’s Counseling Center.
In addition to the keynote, the following workshops will be offered throughout the day to educate the community about mental health resources available on campus:
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR)
8:30-l0AM & 3:30-5PM
BA343
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper training teaches ways to reduce suicidal behaviors, prevent suicide, and save lives. Taught by certified QPR trainers the session lasts 90 minutes, including a presentation and participant roleplay. This training is appropriate for faculty, staff, and students. (Register through Training and Development. Limited to 35 participants for each session.)
Exercise as Mental Medicine
4:00-6PM
MRC Classroom
This program focuses on education and the benefits of exercise and physical activity as a resource for mental health preventative care.
Faith and Mental Health
6 PM Wesleyan Campus Ministry
End the day with Rev. Brian Dierolf and the students of the Wesleyan Campus Ministry for a discussion focusing on the mind, body, spirit connection. The discussion will include a review of the campus resources available to students who are navigating mental health issues while coping with university life. The evening will conclude with a shared meal.
To register for the workshops go to https://goo.gl/uo1oKE.
“Many of our students have expressed needing help in finding resources. This is one of the many reasons why we do counseling outreach on campus,” said Dr. Patras.
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to attend this free event. The first 300 students will be given a free t-shirt and copy of Hines’ bestselling memoir, Cracked, Not Broken.
The event is sponsored by the Counseling Center, Campus Recreation, Office of the President, Lion Athletics, and Student Disability Resources and Services. Go to goo.gl/vS7DkH for more information.
