People struggling with mental illnesses often hesitate to get treatment because of the stigma associated with the conditions. So area groups that  offer mental health treatment and support held an awareness event  Wednesday in Altoona, entitled “Life with a Mental Illness – What It Feels Like and How to Cope.”

 

It’s  aim was to at increase  understanding, and compassion for those dealing with mental illness.

 

“Many people work, lead very productive lives, volunteer,  so absolutely, it’s something you can live with.  We want to continue to reduce the stigma of mental illness and be more accepting of people who suffer,” said Jacque Harpster, UPMC Altoona Behavioral Health Services, the chairperson of the event. 

 

People who attended received information on various types of mental illness and the treatment available in the Blair County area. They also had the option of attending sessions on Yoga, Drumming, and other methods of dealing with mental illness.