Mental Health
The church is not always proactive about how it stands in relationship to mental health (advocating for it) and mental illness (acknowledging it). We recognize the need for both. We are planning a lot more offerings in this area but two programs we have done recently are:
Chin Up
BSM regularly sponsors dialogue that will promote successful aging and awareness of mental health challenges of older adults. A panel presentation acquaints them with the signs of a potential problem, outlines care options*, and offers support/ advocacy strategies for caregivers, family and loved ones. The presentations are followed by an open forum to pose questions to panelists and guests and small group sessions offer opportunities to share stories and air concerns.
Treating Schizophrenia
The wider church has had a checkered history at best dealing with 'taboo' social issues such as domestic violence and mental illness. To date, BSM created three community forums (and is planning several more) that gather professionals across disciplines (physicians, authors, poets, researchers) for 'living room style' conversations about these controversial issues. One event on schizophrenia, featuring Nobel Laureate John Nash and Aaron Beck of the University of Pennsylvania, drew over 500 attendees and was broadcast on NPR
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