The center is hosting its first Men’s and Minority Mental Health Week Concert on Buskirk Field on Marshall’s Huntington campus from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 21.
Director of the Marshall University Counseling Center Dr. Candace Layne says after dealing with restrictions with the COVID-19 pandemic for two years, the decision to host a concert to support mental health made sense.
“We’re very excited to have the opportunity,” said Layne. “We want students to come together and have fun, while providing a creative avenue to open up the conversation on mental health.”
Headlining the event are local music artists Corduroy Brown and Shelem, who are both outspoken advocates for mental health. The event will also be hosted by DJ Illspin, with intermission entertainment featuring Duke Johnson of Thyrd Wyrld.
“We wanted to invite local artists to show what Huntington has to offer, but also wanted artists who have a strong voice and following in the community,” said Layne. “All of the artists feel the discussion of mental health is important and are very passionate about this topic.”
According to Mental Health America, over 6 million men suffer from depression each year, which often goes undiagnosed. Other major mental health problems affecting men are anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis and schizophrenia and eating disorders. Experts say men are also less likely than women to seek help for depression, substance abuse and stressful life events due to downplaying symptoms, reluctance to talk and social norms.
Layne says it’s imperative to address the stigma of mental health, especially with men.
“Men are known as ‘silent sufferers’ and often don’t reach out for mental health support or help,” said Layne. “Minorities underutilize counseling services and it’s important to open up the conversation about mental illness in different communities. The more we discuss mental health and learn more about it, the stigma of mental illness can decrease.”
The concert is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. Food trucks will also be available for orders with cash payment. Media are invited and encouraged to attend.
To learn more about services offered through the Marshall University Counseling Center, visit https://www.marshall.edu/counseling/.