Movies for mental health "Art with Impact" presents student films and panel discussion

“I had a night view for lab this semester and it completely blew my mind,” Lev said. “It was such an amazing experience that I wanted my friends to be able to experience it too. I am glad that they are getting to see something that they difference is that we are no longer able to wear the Freudian Sip hats or aprons. We are not able to sell the mugs anymore, and we are not able to call our drinks the Freudian Frapps or anything like that, but it is all of the same products,” Arambula said.

Arambula said, however, that other changes may be on the horizon.

“Rumor has it that we are going to totally upgrade the inside. We are going to get new sofas, new couches, new computers. It is going to be strictly coffee run with new equipment,” Arambula said. “We are would have never really had the opportunity to before.”

The next viewing night scheduled for this semester is Wednesday, May 3, from sunset until around 10:30 p.m. unless there is a discrepancy with weather. Fields is supposed to get a whole new remodel. It is not confirmed yet, but we are starting to look into that. We want to upgrade it from its current style, make it more modern. It is like ‘90s style right now. We want it to be more 2017, going into the ‘20s now.”

Hogikyan said that he is working to bring the renovations to the Brahma Cafe despite a legal hold up with the cafe logo.

“We are waiting for the logo to be approved,” Hogikyan said. “I have a few quotes for the furniture for the interior and some exterior, such also hosting a planetarium show on Friday, April 21 from 6-8 p.m. Both events are free to the public. as the sofas, but for the dining area tables and chairs, we would like to have the Brahma Cafe logo on them. We are just waiting for the logo to be approved. Once it is approved, we can move forward.”

Hogikyan said that the bookstore will also be getting some upgrades, but the cafe is first in line.

“We are working on an electronic menu board,” Hogikyan said. “It is a big project for both the bookstore and cafe, but the cafe is a priority.”

WILLIAM PESANTES Reporter @cubano1107

To reduce stigmas and spread awareness, Art With Impact presented Movies for Mental Health in the Great Hall March 1.

The non-profit organization showcased student-made films that depicted the experiences of those dealing with mental health issues, as well as a discussion panel, which included students and mental health professionals in the community. Resources for students seeking help were also provided.

Director of the Student Health Center Beth Benne said the films provided insight into mental health issues that young people face.

“The films are about topics that are relevant to our students,” Benne said. “They’re talking about young people’s experience with suicidality, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and various mental health concerns that affect so many young adults.”

Melissa Salvador, a student at Pierce, thinks there are stigmas attached to people suffering from mental illness, including accusations of them “wanting attention.” She said the films could contribute to greater insight and empathy.

“People often dismiss those with afflictions like anorexia, but videos like this can provide insight into the core problems the person is dealing with,” Salvador said. “I think the films for mental health was helpful because the videos demonstrate there is a root to the problem, and this can inspire understanding.”

Panelists discussed the local resources that are available for those seeking treatment, from counseling to crisis intervention.

Benne said the Pierce Student Health Center offers programs to assist students who are looking for support. Many of these programs, including individual and group counseling, are free or low cost. Included with the health fee, students are entitled to six free therapy sessions per semester.

“If people can begin to realize we have resources on campus that can help, it could benefit students in need,” Benne said.

Paul Sanbar, facilitator for Movies for Mental Health, explained that replacing judgement of mental illness with acceptance and understanding is one of the main goals of Art With Impact.

“We want someone to leave here deciding to not use certain words, such as crazy, that have a negative association and perpetuate a stigma,” Sanbar said.

“Raising awareness and sparking a discussion is one of Art With Impact’s primary objectives. Through art, such as short films, people can view the subjective reality of what life is like for a person dealing with mental illness. Everybody has a story, and we are all connected as humans.”