Certified Family Life Educator

The focus of my life changed dramatically when my wonderful younger brother was diagnosed with a serious mental illness. His journey towards recovery has become mine also and along the way I have developed a profound awareness of the needs of this underserved population and their families. I have learned firsthand why mental illness can be called the
“No-casserole illness”. When someone is diagnosed with a physical illness such as cancer or a stroke, it is customary for them and their family to receive get-well cards, casseroles, and other support from their community. However, when someone is diagnosed with mental illness, they often suffer in private receiving only social exclusion and stigma. I have learned that social networks, professional

I am a volunteer teacher of the signature program “Family-to-Family”. Each of my class members brings unique life experiences with them that have shaped their views on mental illness. By teaching coping and problem-solving skills, I have sought to empower the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition. Teaching this course has improved my abilities to communicate with and empathize with a diverse population, including family members of individuals suffering from mental illness. Additionally, I founded the NAMI on Campus UGA organization with the mission of promoting recovery and quality of life improvement for those individuals impacted by mental illness on/off campus. We participate in community outreach efforts, and assist students by collaborating with the existing mental health services on and off campus. The initiation of this club has enhanced my confidence in developing and leading an organization. It is very rewarding for me to create an organization that advocates, educates, and empowers the campus community to understand mental illness and reduce the stigma associated with

Everyone must face challenges in life, but it is how we respond and the assistance we receive that mold us. When I was five years old I was diagnosed with a learning disability called Dyscalculia. My learning disability affects my ability to understand numbers and learn math facts. I was lucky in that my difficulties in math were recognized while attending Pre-K and my family had the financial resources to get me assessed. Others, due to social inequality, are not as privileged. Some individuals do not receive an evaluation until they are in post-secondary education or adults in the workforce. Other individuals with learning disabilities may never receive an evaluation, and go through life never knowing why they have difficulties with academics or why they may be having problems in their jobs or relationships. There often appears to be a gap between the individual’s potential and actual achievement. This is why learning disabilities are referred to as “hidden disabilities”. The individual may appear perfectly “normal” and seem to be a very bright and intelligent person, yet may be unable to demonstrate the skill level expected from someone of a similar age. With the understanding, support, and appropriate interventions, my learning disability did not prevent me from becoming a successful student and adult. The support the NAMI organization gave me and my family in a time of need is another example of how a helping hand at the right time can make all the difference. I am