Active Citizen Series to host ‘Deliberative Dialogue’ event on mental health in America

Students, faculty and staff are invited to take part in this dialogue on Tuesday, September 26 at 4:30 p.m. in Lakeside 212.

As part of the Active Citizen Series, the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, Elon Votes!, Council on Civic Engagement and Elon Political Engagement Work Group will host a “Deliberative Dialogue – Mental Health in America” event on Tuesday, September 26 at 4:30 p.m. in Lakeside 212. Advanced registration for the event is required.

Many individuals share a sense that something is wrong with how we address mental health and mental illness. More and more people are taking medications for depression, anxiety, hyperactivity and other disorders. Meanwhile, many mental illnesses are going undetected and untreated. According to some, recent violent incidents reflect the need to increase our ability to support those suffering from a mental illness. One in five Americans will have mental health concerns in any given year. How should we move forward as a nation?

Deliberative Dialogue events are an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and community members to gather and exchange diverse viewpoints and experiences to seek a shared understanding of a challenge facing our society and to search for common ground for action.

The Active Citizen Series is designed to cultivate the next generation of informed leaders who will help strengthen communities and shape our democracy. The series allows students to gain a deeper understanding of how government works and to develop the necessary skills to engage in civil discourse across political divides.