Much of life is beautiful and joyous, but there can be some pretty big parts that are horribly dark, scary, hopeless, and completely terrifying – especially when it’s something that you feel like you can’t talk about, and you seem to be all alone. But you don’t have to be.

Let’s shine some light in those dark places.

Why don’t we share our stories, support each other in our struggles, and commend one another’s strengths.

Some suggested prompts: What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever experienced? What got you through? How has mental health affected your Middlebury experience? What does mental health mean to you? How do you practice self-care? What do you wish your friends or supports knew?

The Mental Health Monologues will follow the format of It Happens Here. It will take place Monday, April 6th at 8pm in Dana Auditorium. The Mental Health Monologues is an opportunity for members of the Middlebury College community to share their mental health stories and to bring about awareness and acceptance of mental health challenges. Specifically, we hope to open up dialogue on campus about mental health struggles, triumphs, recovery and courage. We welcome all stories regarding mental health and well being with content including, yet not limited to eating disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.  We welcome submissions by people of all identities, regardless of race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, or gender. These may take the form of personal essay, poetry, or other forms of written expression. You may submit anonymously or read your own story.  

Please email rgorman@middlebury.edu with any questions or concerns.