ST. LOUIS — As college campuses see unrest across the U.S. amid the war in the Middle East, a university in St. Louis is focusing on mental health.
Aspire Advocates for Behavioral Health and Saint Louis University's Center for Social Action will be hosting a Mental Health Awareness Kick-Off Event from 1-3 o.m. Tuesday at the university's Clock Tower.
Elizabeth Peterson is a Junior at SLU and an intern with Aspire Advocates. She said it's important they promote awareness.
"Just share resources with the community about mental health and what resources are available to them because mental health is something that's often overlooked, and there's a big stigma surrounding it," Peterson said.
According to Peterson, the rally will feature various activities and speakers, including NAMI St. Louis; students; and community members who have been affected by mental health challenges.
"We're also launching the 'You Are Loved' campus campaign. It's the green hearts, and people are welcome to spread messages of love and compassion," she said.
Peterson said this is vital for college students, right now.
"It's hard for people to get resources, they're scared to talk about it, they're scared to reach out, so I wanted to just reach out to the community and let people know that you're never more than an arm's length away from someone who loves and cares about you, and that you have those resources available to you,' she said.
As a result of Tuesday's event at SLU, April 30 is being recognized as "Behavioral Health Awareness Day" in the City of St. Louis.
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