New York Times Bestselling Author Marya Hornbacher to Speak October 1
BRUNSWICK, ME — In observance of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Mid Coast Hospital will host Marya Hornbacher at a special community event focused on reducing the stigma of mental illness. “Changing Minds: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness" will feature a talk and book signing by Hornbacher on Tuesday, October 1, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Frontier Café, Cinema, and Gallery in Brunswick.
A Pulitzer Prize nominee and New York Times bestselling writer, Hornbacher has published several critically acclaimed books on mental illness, including Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia; Madness: A Bipolar Life; Sane: Mental Illness, Addiction, and the Twelve Steps; and Waiting: A Nonbeliever’s Higher Power. Hornbacher’s work has been translated into sixteen languages and has received major attention, both in the United States and abroad.
Offered in partnership with the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) Maine, Hornbacher’s presentation will recount her personal journey, while offering hope and clarity to those touched by mental illness. Her descriptions of exuberant manias, blind rages and depression can be difficult to read and hear, but will ring true to those who have experienced or witnessed bipolar disorder unchecked. She is equally stark in portraying the ravages of an eating disorder that began when she was only nine, and the substance addiction she battled as an adult.
According to the U.S. Surgeon General, about one in five adults suffer from a diagnosable mental illness in a given year, yet fewer than one-third of adults and half of children with a diagnosable mental disorder receive any level of treatment. Both NAMI and Mid Coast Hospital promote mental health as an essential component of overall health and well-being.
“Lack of support, understanding, and fear of rejection and discrimination are major barriers to seeking help,” said Thomas Kivler, Director of Outpatient Behavioral Health at Mid Coast Hospital. “By eliminating the stigmas often associated with mental illness, as a community we can provide the needed support for individuals who are suffering. With proper diagnosis and treatment, these individuals can lead healthier lives.”
To reserve a seat for the event, call 725-5222. While this is event is offered free to the community, donations to support NAMI Maine will be accepted at the door. In addition, three of Hornbacher’s books, Madness, Sane, and Waiting, will be available for purchase and signing.
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