Smashing the stigma around mental illness, literally

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On Tuesday, October 29, in the Quad, Jack.Org UNBSJ Chapter will be hosting a very powerful event in hopes of smashing the stigma around mental illness. At this event, people will write negative words or phrases commonly around mental health on pumpkins in either paint or marker, then smash it to pieces.

The Jack.org UNBSJ Chapter’s first event of the year hopes to smash the stigma around mental illness, literally. (Jack.Org UNBSJ Chapter/Facebook)

The purpose of this event is to relieve some of the frustrations, confusion, anger, and other upsetting emotions that come with having mental illness.

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental health problem or illness in any given year. So, if you are not personally affected by mental illness, you can attend the event in support of the many around you who do.

All materials will be provided by Jack.Org and their sponsors; including Cochran’s Country Market (Hampton Road, Rothesay) and Pumpkin Patch (Manawagonish Road, Saint John). The event will also have free hot chocolate, to keep you warm as you smash negativity!

More information about the event can be found on Facebook. Signing up is not required, although it will help Jack.Org in making sure they have enough material for all people attending.

Taylor is in her fifth year of her Bachelor of Arts/Education and is double majoring in English and Psychology. She has an affinity for all things Shakespeare, loves old books and has recently discovered a love for gardening! When not at school or work, you can find her perusing thrift stores, collecting beach glass, or watching birds. She is a proud Taylor Swift fan (we only listen to Taylor's Version here) and also believes pasta should be a food group and that gummy bears qualify as a healthy breakfast.