‘This Is My Brave’ highlights local people sharing mental health, addiction triumphs Posted on May 24, 2019 Show performed for first time in NH on Thursday : Watch news clip Jean Mackin , WMUR TV, News Anchor/Reporter CONCORD, N.H. — Ending the stigma attached to mental illness and addiction took center stage in Concord on Thursday, with a unique performance during Mental Health Awareness Month. Local residents made up the cast of “This Is My Brave,” opening up about their personal battles. “I have a mental illness,” said participant Patricia Helbig. “Even uttering these words gives me knots in my stomach.” “You’re welcome and wanted here,” another woman told the crowd. The nonprofit movement puts on performances all over the country, promoting storytelling as a way to heal. “‘This Is My Brave’ is a platform for individuals to share their true, personal stories about overcoming mental illness and addiction through creative expression,” said cofounder Jennifer Marshall. Organizers hope that every time a story is shared, it lets someone else know they are not alone. “I could have not have known then what I know now: that the circumstances of my life could and would get so much better,” Samantha Captain said before the audience. This is the first time the program has been performed in New Hampshire, with support from Riverbend Community Mental Health Care. “We believe the sharing of the story is good for the individual, but it’s also good for the community,” said Peter Evers, chief executive officer of Riverbend. “It gives us the ability to say to other people step forward, join the tribe, be part of this.” Experts said the first step to getting help with mental health issues is to contact your local community mental health agency.
