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This display reminds us that it’s okay to “not be okay” and help is available. “Normalizing and prioritizing conversations about mental health leads to more Mainers getting connected to help and hope. These two organizations are dedicated to providing mental health support to individuals and families throughout Maine. McLean is honored to have local collaborators, including Northern Light Acadia Hospital and the NAMI Maine. By providing space in our facility for Deconstructing Stigma, we hope Ron’s story and the others that now adorn our walls will raise awareness, provide support, and encourage our friends, family, and neighbors to seek help when they need it.” “Thousands of people come through the airport each year. Thankfully, Ron recognized he needed help and reached out,” said BGR Director Tony Caruso. “Stories like Ron’s are important to share because far too many people are afraid to speak up. He also has a special plea for those who work in high-stress jobs to pay attention to their co-workers and look for signs of trouble.
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Ron volunteered to be part of Deconstructing Stigma because he wants to encourage people who may be facing depression and PTSD to reach out for help. He was able to take time off from work, get treatment, and today is in a much better place. In time, Ron reached out for help, confiding in trusted colleagues. I was in a hard spot emotionally,” explained Ron. “I’d start crying at bedtime, I’d start crying before I went to work. “Most of all, however, I want to express our deepest thanks to the volunteers of Deconstructing Stigma who have bravely shared their personal stories in hopes of helping others.”Īfter witnessing a tragic event while at work, Ron began to struggle with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. “We are excited to bring Deconstructing Stigma to Maine and are grateful to the Bangor International Airport and our advocacy partners for supporting our efforts to heighten awareness and spark conversation about mental health,” said Scott O’Brien, director of education outreach for McLean Hospital. The Bangor exhibit features several volunteers from Maine and was done in collaboration with Northern Light Acadia Hospital and the National Alliance on Mental Illness Maine. Since then, McLean has partnered with airports and other public venues worldwide to feature volunteers who share their stories about their experiences living with mental illness. Deconstructing Stigma initially launched in 2016 with a large installation at Boston Logan International Airport.
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The Bangor exhibit is part of “Deconstructing Stigma: Changing Attitudes About Mental Health,” McLean’s international mental health awareness campaign, featuring compelling portraits of courageous people who volunteer to share their stories with the hope of changing how people living with mental illness are viewed. The goal of the exhibit, which opens today at the airport, is to increase awareness and reduce the stigma that is too often associated with depression, anxiety, substance use, and other mental illnesses. Inspirational photo exhibit shines a light on Mainers living with mental illnessīANGOR – McLean Hospital, located just outside of Boston, and Bangor International Airport are bringing an inspirational exhibit highlighting stories of people living with mental illness to Maine.