Poet Maya Angelou during her childhood, suffered from selective mutism, a type of anxiety disorder that often presents in children. In many cases selective mutism is also associated with shyness or social anxiety, and affected individuals experience great fear in specific situations where they are expected to speak, such as at school, rendering them silent. In this unique and descriptive poem by Carl Sutton, we get a glimpse into what it's like to live with this condition that can be quite impairing ... "Some days the rusted door is left ajar, and out the shadows of my whispers waft - my face is near but voice is from afar at first, but then I sing and hoot aloft. Some days I hoot of silence to the sun..." For the full poem click here: http://www.ispeak.org.uk/Awareness2015.aspx On the opening night of the Canadian Psychiatric Association conference, we had a chance to attend a unique musical forum held by Robb Nash and his bandmates. For those who don't know Robb, as a teenager he suffered a life-threatening car accident. On top of significant physical injuries, Robb also experienced "anger, self-doubt and depression". However, Robb found passion and purpose in music, which helped his body, soul and mind recover. Since then Robb has been using his story and musical talents to connect with youth and talk about tough subjects like mental health. He and his band now travel across Canada, providing free shows at schools, youth centres, and even detention facilities, to help individuals discover their significance and find inner hope. While it is obvious that Robb has had a profound impact on countless lives, his project has also helped to save lives as to date they report that over 350 students have turned in suicide notes to them following their shows. You can find out more about The Robb Nash Project and download their songs for free by clicking here: http://robbnash.com/ "The Robb Nash Project engages young people through the power of music and words, encouraging them to make positive life choices and lead lives of significance and purpose... Through personal stories, song and video, Robb sensitively deals with serious issues including drug and alcohol addiction, bullying, self-harm, #depression and suicide. He inspires youth to stay hopeful, recognize their unique strengths and make positive choices." |
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Supporting and enhancing students' and health professionals' knowledge and understanding of mental health and psychiatry
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