As data show mental health illnesses are increasingly becoming more prominent on college campuses, the Michigan State University and East Lansing communities are coming together to discuss the topic during the inaugural Mental Health Awareness Week from April 7 to 12.
Titled "Release the Stigma," events during the week will shed light on the importance of mental health, as well as the prevalence of mental health illnesses on campus. Various events, activities, and conversations will be held.
A list of some of the events is below, and complete information can be found at www.facebook.com/msumhaw2014.
Saturday, April 5
- Color Run 5K for Mental Health: Registration 9:30 a.m. at The Rock; proceeds benefit the MSU Counseling Center
- Relax and de-stress with board games and volleyball at Owen Hall at 2 p.m.
Monday, April 7
- Stop by The Rock during the day to enjoy music from IMPACT 89FM Radio.
- The Vista will be hosting a special dining event at 5 p.m.
- Visit Brody, Holmes, Snyder-Phillips and Case dining halls for ribbons and t-shirts for mental health
Tuesday, April 8
- Take a break in your day and enjoy Yoga at The Rock from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- Feast on decorative cakes in all the dining halls in the evening
Wednesday, April 9
- Stop by the The Rock all day to get your picture taken for mental health. You could be seen on social media during the week.
- Embrace the Rain is an event bringing awareness to mental illness. Come to Erickson Kiva between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. to hear testimonials, live music, poetry and reflection.
Thursday, April 10
- In coordination with National Alcohol Screening Day, the MSU Counseling Center will host an Alcohol Screening event in all of the residential neighborhoods from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Celebrate MHAW with our community at a walk and concert. Gather at Beaumont Tower to hear guest speakers and live music as organizers release the stigma associated with mental health. Festivities will begin with a live performance from Desmond Jones at 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 12
- Spartan Day of Service: Get involved and support our community; registration begins at 8 a.m. at 130BCC.