Social Concerns Seminar: In Their Shoes - Understanding Mental Illness

(1 Credit Hour) · Undergraduate

In the spirit of Notre Dame du Lac, the overall goal of this seminar is to educate both the heart and mind about what it means to live with chronic mental illness. Catholic social teaching emerges from the truth of what God has revealed to us about himself. Caring for mental health and wellbeing is an important part of what it means to participate in Christ's redemptive work. Jesus came to invite all people into relationship with God, and as his disciples we are called to love one another and help one another recognize God's presence in every circumstance and experience, including the experience of mental health challenges. This requires not only profound compassion and hope, but also education and equipping. In this seminar, students will be introduced to and hear perspectives from health care providers, faith leaders involved in mental health advocacy and most importantly, those living with serious mental illness and their families. Students will also learn about and visit the Clubhouse of St. Joseph County. The Clubhouse model (see Clubhouse International) is a program that promotes the recovery of adults living with mental illness by providing them with a welcoming community, meaningful work, and supported employment. Key components of the course will include weekly group gatherings, and visits to the Clubhouse of St. Joseph County. The essence of this seminar is to develop each student's understanding of the complexities of what it means to live with a serious mental illness and the role of faith in living a life of hope. They will be introduced to existing models that support these individuals and form a foundation moving forward that begs the question: Where do we go from here? By the end of the course, students will be equipped to begin to answer this question in their own communities, using their unique gifts and talents. Apply online via the Center for Social Concerns website: http://socialconcerns.nd.edu/social-concerns-seminars. Please note, this course has extra required meeting times and/or events outside of the displayed meeting schedule. em.