Mental health awareness promoted

By Juanita Kelly-Hill
Staff Writer

Lansing Community College counselors successfully put together another event that brought mental health awareness to campus.

The “Test Your Mood” event was held Wednesday, Oct. 19 in the Gannon Building’s StarZone Highway. It was open to LCC students to bring any questions or concerns they may have had regarding mental health. 

There were about 50 students who stopped by to check out the events, with three counselors on standby. There was a display of two tables that provided information about depression, free counseling and mental health issues, as well as free goodies such as mood rings, keychains and reusable cups.

Every October, which is Depression Awareness Month, LCC's counseling team puts together a mood event for the stigma of depression, while also acknowledging domestic violence and Relationship Awareness Month, according to LCC Counselor Louise Rabidoux.

“We host the events to educate the campus community about mood disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, seasonal affective disorder and to help the campus be aware of the services we provide,” Rabidoux explained.

“We have free confidential short-term counseling for any concerns that students may have.”

Rabidoux said she would like to increase the awareness of the counseling services, but also help break down the stigma that surrounds depression and anxiety. She offered words of encouragement to those who may be struggling with mental health.

“Know that you are not alone and there is help and support available,” Rabidoux said. “When people deal with depression or mood disorders they tend to isolate or feel alone. Connection can be a really important piece when coping with mental-health issues.”

LCC student William DeKoninck said he believes the event was helpful for students who are dealing with depression, anxiety or other mood disorders.

“I would like to see more events on campus that bring awareness to mental health,” DeKoninck said. “I think it is important that we continue to spread awareness and offer support to people dealing with any mental health issues.”

For more information about counseling services on campus, please reach out to counseling services at (517) 483-1924 or click here.