Combating The Stigma Of Mental Health Focus Of Bucks Program

NEWTOWN, PA — To help break the stigma around mental health issues, Bucks County Community College presents “NAMI In Our Own Voice” at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2 at the Newtown Campus and online.

Speakers Mia Scocozzo and Rachel Hetrick will share their perspectives and talk openly about their experiences in an attempt to change attitudes, assumptions, and ideas about people with mental health conditions.

Scocozzo, the youth programs director of NAMI Bucks County, visits students to talk about the warning signs for mental health conditions, facts, statistics, and how to get help. For example, she developed a program called Small Talk for elementary students to learn how to name their feelings, differentiate between emotions, and practice healthy coping skills. Scocozzo shares her personal journey of recovery to allow others to feel less alone in a drive to end the stigma around mental health.

Hetrick is a graphic designer based in Philadelphia who expresses herself through painting and illustration and loves to exercise. Mental health advocacy is a big part of her life, and she is passionate about spreading hope.

The presentation, which is free and open to the public, also provides information on how to learn more about mental health and get involved with the mental health community.

“NAMI In Our Own Voice” takes place at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 2, in the Gallagher Room, located inside the Rollins Center on the campus at 275 Swamp Rd., Newtown 18940.

The presentation can also be viewed live online. To register for the Zoom session, click here.

The event is sponsored by the BCCC Psychology Club and DEI Programs in the college’s Office of External Affairs. To learn more, contact Jean Dolan at jean.dolan@bucks.edu or 215-968-8094.