This in‑person community discussion, happening at Heartwood House, offers a gentle, plain‑language introduction to mental health, mental illness, and stigma. Together, we will explore the difference between “mental health” and “mental illness,” and how stigma can affect whether people feel safe to seek help.
Guided by a licensed psychotherapist (to be announced), this interactive session will:
- Introduce a simple way to think about mental health on a continuum (from thriving to struggling)
- Touch on common conditions such as anxiety, depression, and dementia‑related changes
- Explain different types of stigma (public, self, and structural) with everyday examples
- Use short activities and stories to challenge myths and invite reflection
- Highlight how stigma affects families, caregivers, and relationships, and where support is available
This discussion is designed for a general audience and will be held in a respectful, non‑judgmental space. Participants are welcome to share at their own comfort level and will leave with shared language, practical insight, and information about upcoming KAPWB programs and supports.