July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. The purpose is to address the barriers to treatment and stigmas that exist in minority communities. The New York Times bestselling author was a strong advocate for mental health, stemming from her personal experiences within her family. Two of her books, “Sometimes My Mommy Gets Angry” and “72 Hour Hold” address the issue of bipolar disorder and other mental illness. She was also one of the founding members of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Urban Los Angeles.
Missouri State Senator Barbara Anne Washington commemorates the month this Saturday with the 11th Annual Minority Mental Health Awareness Event: “Brunch with Bebe’s Sisters” at MCC-Penn Valley Education Center. During the brunch, the regional director from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Joe Palm, will provide the latest information on minority mental health, followed by a panel discussion to empower men and reduce the stigma of mental health in our community. Listen in for details on how to attend and more.