Church of the Brethren Webcast Series

This third of five webcasts on mental illness addresses the stigma and fear associated with mental illness that are often the result of stereotyping, and offers suggestions to transform stereotyping into support.

The recent tragedy at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute has generated several debatable issues, including gun control and how to help deeply troubled individuals who do not pursue mental health treatment and cannot be mandated to receive treatment as an adult. In this series of five webcasts, psychologist John Wenger of Anderson, Indiana, a member of the Church of the Brethren, offers a deeper understanding of mental illness, and opportunities for individuals and congregations to support individuals and families who live with mental illness.

Mary Dulabaum, director of communications for the Association of Brethren Caregivers, and Enten Eller, executive producer of the Church of the Brethren Webcast Series, facilitate the conversation. The webcasts explore issues relating to mental illness such as violence, isolation, fear, and stigma; treatments for mental illness; suggestions of how individuals and congregations can offer support; and available resources for additional information.