One of the greatest barriers to recovery from a mental illness isn’t something an individual can control. It’s the social and cultural stigma they face. The BringChange2Mind campaign, created by Glenn Close, is devoted to removing that stigma and encouraging mental wellness. This year, the third annual “Journey of Hope” event proudly features Glenn’s sister, Jessie Close, and Jessie’s son, Calen Pick and BringChange2Mind.

“Journey of Hope,” an inspiring and educational mental wellness forum, will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, at New Life Church in Pismo Beach. This is a free event, open to the public.

Jessie lived with bipolar disorder for most of her life, but wasn’t properly diagnosed until 2004. Her son, Calen, was 18 when he lost the life he knew and was plunged into psychosis. He was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder in 1999. At “Journey of Hope,” Jessie and Calen will share their personal struggles with mental illness, as well as their compelling and inspirational journey to accept and adapt as individuals who are living with a mental illness.

BringChange2Mind began when Jessie asked Glenn to help fight the stigma of mental illness. Glenn and director Ron Howard teamed up to film the first BringChange2Mind public service announcement in Grand Central Station in 2009. BringChange2Mind has continued to raise awareness about mental illness and provides support and information to people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness and their families.

The forum will include a local resources and mental health services fair. Attendees seeking services for themselves or someone else are welcome to visit with representatives from over 30 local agencies and county departments.
Continuing education units (CEUs) will be offered through San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Services and Central Coast Psychological Association.

"Journey of Hope" is hosted by Transitions-Mental Health Association’s Family Services and Peer Advisory and Advocacy Teams. This event is co-sponsored by the Community Counseling Center of SLO County and is funded by the Mental Health Services Act though San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Services. For more information about this event, visit www.t-mha.org.