In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, The Career Services Center in partnership with Psychological Services hosted “The Waiting Period,” Brian Copeland’s one-man show about his personal battle with depression and suicide. Copeland approached these often taboo and serious subjects with a mix of comedy, personal anecdotes and introspection. Audience members ran a gamut of emotions as Copeland shared his sometimes funny, sometimes tragic struggle with mental health. Audience members remarked:
“I feel like this play was as transformative as it should have been.”
“Copeland provided an inspiring testimony and an uplifting message.”
“A little bit of caring can save a person.”
Following the performance, which was attended by over 250 students, a panel including mental health professionals from Skyline College and community agencies discussed ways audience members can help friends or family members battling depression. The panel, moderated by Lavinia Zanassi, shared resources such as the Psychological Services Center on the Skyline College campus as well as online resources where community members can seek out professional help.
Brian Copeland’s amazing performance helped shed light and destigmatize a subject we often try to avoid. We encourage you to visit Skyline College’s Psychological Services web page at http://www.skylinecollege.edu/psychologicalservices/ or stop by their office in Building 2 Room 2206 if you or someone you know may be struggling with mental health issues. We look forward to working with more speakers like Brian Copeland in the future to create and continue healthy dialogues and conversations.
Article by Brian Jenney | Photo by Lavinia Zanassi
